In a Reuters report by Dan Peleschuk from KYIV, President Volodymyr Zelenskiy demanded justice on Monday for over 183,000 supposed war crimes attributed to Russia since the 2022 invasion, stressing the importance of preventing further atrocities. Addressing European officials in Bucha, near Kyiv, where Russian forces have been accused of heinous acts, including executions and torture, Zelenskiy called for consequences for Russia. While Russia did not immediately respond to Zelenskiy’s statements, it has previously denied allegations of military wrongdoing and accused the West of overlooking Ukraine’s own transgressions, a claim Kyiv denies.
Zelenskiy stated, “More than 183,000 crimes linked to Russia’s aggression against Ukraine have been officially recorded,” emphasizing the need for international cooperation to safeguard the region from such threats. He underscored the importance of holding wrongdoers accountable to prevent further spread of evil, stressing the necessity of pressuring Russia and imposing sanctions to halt the escalation of war and abuse.
The majority of war crimes cases against Russia are being handled locally by Ukraine, with investigations also conducted by the International Criminal Court in The Hague, which Ukraine recently joined. The court’s authority is not recognized by the US and Russia, with President Trump imposing sanctions on the tribunal. Additionally, US cuts in foreign funding have hindered efforts to hold Russia accountable for alleged crimes, impacting aid programs that provided support to Ukrainian authorities.
Despite challenges, Ukraine remains committed to pursuing justice for victims of Russian occupation in Bucha, with over 9,000 crimes documented in the area, including 1,800 deaths. Ukraine’s acting prosecutor general, Oleksiy Khomenko, announced that charges have been brought against 178 individuals, with 21 convictions so far. Collaboration with the ICC and 25 other nations conducting investigations continues, as Ukraine remains resolute in seeking accountability for those responsible for atrocities.
Zelenskiy, alongside European dignitaries, paid tribute to Bucha’s victims, honoring those affected by Russia’s occupation in 2022. The grim events in Bucha serve as a stark reminder of the brutality inflicted by Russian forces, underscoring the urgency of seeking justice and preventing such atrocities from recurring.
