War Crimes Seem Evident In Ukraine, But Accountability Is Challenging

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Reports of civilians being tortured and killed — and the accompanying images that have surfaced this week in the city of Bucha — have raised questions about potential war crimes committed by Russian forces in Ukraine. The Biden administration is assisting international investigators in looking into potential war crimes. And some experts say the evidence of such crimes is clear in this highly-documented conflict.

But history shows that drawing a straight line between war crimes and heads of state is challenging.

NPR's Scott Detrow spoke with senior researcher at Human Rights Watch, Yulia Gorbunova, about her reporting of alleged human rights violations in Russian-controlled parts of Ukraine.

NPR's Julie McCarthy examines what constitutes war crimes and the prospects of Russian President Vladimir Putin being held to account.

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This episode was produced by Jonaki Mehta and Brent Baughman. It was edited by Ashley Brown and Scott Neuman. Additional reporting from Nate Rott. Our executive producer is Cara Tallo.