By: Natasha Archary
A Russian soldier was sentenced to life for killing an unarmed Ukrainian civilian since Russia’s invasion 3-months ago.
In the first war crimes trial in Kyiv, 21-year old Sgt. Vadim Shyshimarin, pleaded guilty to violating the laws and customs of war.
Shyshimarin admitted to shooting Oleksandr Shelipov, a 62-year old man in the head in a village that Russia had invaded.
Sentencing of the Russian soldier will come into effect within 30-days but he is to remain in custody until then.
Kateryna Shelipova, the man’s widow confronted the soldier during the trial.
Shyshimarin apologised to the man’s widow but said he had simply been following orders.
According to reports, Shyshimarin was ordered to kill the civilian to prevent him from telling Ukrainian forces about the location of Russian troops.
The civilian was killed with a single shot to his head which crushed his skull.
While this may be the first war crime trial to date, many believe that there will be a string of atrocities levelled against Russian troops.
The case drew major international attention, forcing swift action and highlighting the need to document Russia’s invasion.
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