A member of a pro-Russian militia, who is now held as a prisoner of war in Ukraine, has told NHK that he does not know what the fighting in the country is for.

Ukraine's Justice Ministry allowed foreign media inside a detention camp on condition that they keep the location secret, and refrain from showing the faces of the POWs.

At least 20 Russian soldiers and pro-Russian militant fighters were detained as of Friday. Most are said to be in their 20s.

A 29-year-old fighter from the eastern Donbas region told NHK that his commander initially told him that the fighting would be over in three days, and he could then return home.

The man described widespread destruction in villages where fighting took place. He said houses were destroyed and power supplies were cut.

He added, "I do not know what the fighting is for. Many people have died on both sides. This should be settled politically."

Deputy Justice Minister Olena Visotska said members of the International Committee of the Red Cross have visited the camp, and that the prisoners are being treated in accordance with international humanitarian law.

The detention camp has medical and sports facilities.

Visotska said keeping the Russians detained is necessary, in order to facilitate talks with Moscow for a prisoner swap.