Geography of the placement of Ukrainian prisoners of war from the Austro-Hungarian army in the territory of the Russian Empire (1917–1918)

Abstract

Purpose. The study aims to determine the geography of the placement of Ukrainian POW`s from the Austro-Hungarian army within the Russian Empire, particularly beyond the borders of Ukraine. Scientific novelty. The research comprehensively examines the territorial distribution of Ukrainian prisoners of war from the Austro-Hungarian army across the provinces of the Romanov Empire. It characterizes the changes that occurred in 1917–1918 within Russian provinces with Ukrainian prisoners and identifies the key requests made to the Ukrainian Central Rada by these prisoners. Originality. The study is based on unpublished archival documents and letters from prisoners of war, which allow for the reconstruction of their placement in camps across the Russian Empire. It explores the differences in the treatment of Slavic prisoners, particularly Ukrainians, compared to representatives of other nationalities. Conclusions. A geographical analysis revealed that Ukrainian prisoners of war, despite the general policy toward Slavic peoples, were placed in both the European and Asian parts of the Russian Empire. The study identifies a significant impact of the political events of 1917 on the condition of the prisoners, as well as their attempts to return to Ukraine. The Ukrainian Central Rada sought to improve their living conditions and facilitate their transfer. The existence of “penal camps” for Ukrainian prisoners of war within the Russian Empire has also been outlined.