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Ukrainian authorities are investigating more than 21,000 suspected Russian war crimes in Ukraine. Between 200 and 300 crimes are reported every day, Attorney General Iryna Venediktova tells the BBC.
At the same time, Venice dictates that the crimes are difficult to investigate “carefully and effectively” because both areas and people are difficult to access. She also says that many trials will be held without anyone charged on the spot, but that it is “a matter of justice” to continue with the trials anyway.
Venice dictates to the BBC that Russian soldiers who murder, torture and rape should understand that it is only “a matter of time” before justice catches up.
According to the prosecutor, around 600 suspects have been identified and 80 charges have been initiated.
The first Russian soldier to be prosecuted was sentenced in May for murder to life in prison. The 21-year-old shot dead a cycling Ukrainian man in Sumy during the first days of the war of aggression.