Ukraine is currently grappling with a humanitarian crisis of historic proportions, with the National Police reporting over 114,000 individuals listed as missing under special circumstances—a figure encompassing both military personnel and civilians. As detailed by the National Police of Ukraine, identifying these individuals has become a top priority for investigative units.
Maksym Tsutskiridze, First Deputy Head of the National Police, emphasized the necessity of international expertise during recent discussions with the UK’s National Crime Agency (NCA). The British partnership provides critical support, including specialized training and the provision of essential supplies for collecting biological samples. This international cooperation is vital for processing the massive backlog of DNA samples and identifying remains found in liberated territories.
The identification process is technically and logistically demanding. To address this, Ukrainian investigators have integrated advanced digital solutions, such as extracting fingerprint data directly from the electronic chips of biometric ID documents. This creates a robust national dactyloscopic database, significantly increasing the probability of successfully matching data for those who have disappeared.
The human cost of the ongoing war remains staggering. While the state continues to prioritize the return of its citizens, having successfully secured the release of over 9,500 people since the start of the full-scale invasion, the search for those still missing remains a top-tier challenge. Since the beginning of 2026 alone, 1,596 Ukrainians have returned home. However, thousands of unidentified bodies continue to occupy investigators, requiring sustained forensic efforts and ongoing support from Western allies.
The commitment shown by the National Police and their international counterparts underscores a broader effort to ensure that no one is left behind. Through the integration of modern forensic technology and diplomatic cooperation, Ukraine aims to provide closure to the families of those missing, while continuing the fight to hold the aggressor accountable for the widespread destruction and loss of life caused by the conflict.