Ukrainian 'War Crimes Trial' Defendant Russian Soldier "Admits Killing Civilians"

[Image source=Yonhap News]

[Asia Economy Reporter Jeon Jinyoung] In the first war crimes trial held by the Ukrainian judiciary since the war began, a Russian soldier who appeared as a defendant admitted to killing a civilian.

According to the BBC on the 18th (local time), Sergeant Vadim Shishimarin (21) of the Russian Army's Kantemirovskaya Tank Division admitted to shooting and killing a civilian during the trial held at the Kyiv District Court that day.

He admitted to the charge of shooting and killing an unarmed 62-year-old man in a village in Sumy Oblast, Ukraine, on February 28, responding "Yes" when the judge asked, "Do you admit to the crime?"

He also answered "Yes" when asked, "Do you fully admit to the charges?"

This is the first time a Russian soldier has admitted to committing war crimes during the invasion of Ukraine. However, the Russian government stated that it has not received any information regarding the incident involving Sergeant Shishimarin.

The victim's wife also attended the court that day. Before leaving the courtroom, she told reporters, "I feel sorry for him," but added, "I cannot forgive someone who committed such a crime."

If Sergeant Shishimarin is found guilty, he could face a maximum sentence of life imprisonment.

The Ukrainian judicial authorities have stated that there are approximately 10,000 cases suspected to be war crimes committed by Russian forces to date.