Russian Soldier Faces Trial for Alleged Ukrainian POW Execution

story

JUN 16

Above: Dmitriy Kurashov pleaded guilty in a Zaporizhzhia court to killing Vitalii Hodniuk in January 2024 Image copyright: Handout via BBC

story last updated JUN 16

The Spin

Narrative A

This trial highlights Ukraine's commitment to holding war criminals accountable despite the ongoing conflict. The systematic nature of these executions shows this isn't isolated but part of Russian military doctrine.

RadioFreeEurope/RadioLiberty The Global Herald

Narrative B

The case relies heavily on testimony from Russian prisoners of war who may have had incentives to lie for better treatment or prisoner exchanges. Kurashov is innocent and pleaded guilty only to expedite the proceedings, hoping for an exchange.

Svidomi BBC News