The Security Service of Ukraine has obtained fresh evidence of the involvement of high-ranking military officials of the Russian Federation in war crimes during the war at the onset of hostilities. This information was published in the well-known online publication 'Hromadske'.
According to the obtained data, in March 2022, Russian occupation forces launched massive attacks on the civilian population and infrastructure in the Sumy region. 20 explosions from FAB-500 aerial bombs led to significant destruction of residential buildings, schools, kindergartens, and other facilities.
“According to the case materials, the order for the airstrike was issued by the commander of the Western Military District of the Russian Federation, Colonel-General Alexander Zhuravlyov.”
The investigation by the Security Service confirms the involvement of Lieutenant General Oleg Makovetsky, Lieutenant General Yuri Podoplelov, Major General Denis Kulsh, and Colonel Vladimir Fedoseyev in planning these bombings. Russian pilots took off from bases in the Kursk region to carry out the attacks.
Accountability for War Crimes
Six individuals involved in these crimes have been notified of suspicion under parts of Articles 28 and 438 of the Criminal Code of Ukraine. Efforts are directed towards ensuring that each perpetrator is held accountable. An investigation has also already been initiated into the murder of Irina Filkina and the torture of Ukrainian captive servicemen.
The Security Service of Ukraine continues to collect evidence of war crimes and is working to ensure that all responsible persons are brought to justice for their actions during military operations on the territory of Ukraine.