In the first Ukrainian war crimes trial, the verdict against the accused Russian soldier is expected this morning. The 21-year-old testified in court in the Ukrainian capital of Kiev that he was ordered to shoot a 62-year-old civilian in the village of Chupakhivka in the Sumy region.
Prosecutors asked for life in prison. The defense asks for acquittal because the soldier complied with an order. It is the first war crimes trial since the Russian invasion began on February 24.
“Repentance and Repentance”
The Siberian tank soldier apologized to wide international attention. “I regret this. I regret it very much. I did not refuse and I am ready to accept whatever measures are imposed,” he said in his closing speech.
The sentence only becomes final after the eventual appeal. The process started last week. It is possible that the man will be exchanged for Ukrainian prisoners in Russia.
The United Nations has recorded more than 38,000 civilian deaths since late February, but assumes the casualty toll will be even higher.