Current Realities of Investigation and the Possibility of Bringing to Justice Those Guilty of Committing War Crimes on the Territory of Ukraine
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Abstract
Throughout the 20th century, international humanitarian law (IHL) underwent significant evolution in combating crimes against peace (aggression), crimes against humanity, war crimes, and genocide. The armed aggression of the Russian Federation against Ukraine has led to the temporary occupation of about 20% of the internationally recognized territory of Ukraine (as of 2025), which is accompanied by large-scale violations of human rights and the commission of war crimes. In the context of active hostilities, the absence of legal jurisdiction and the inability of the law enforcement system to function in the occupied territories have created a legal vacuum that complicates the effective investigation of crimes. This poses serious challenges in bringing war criminals to justice, taking into account the norms of IHL, inter-state cooperation, and the use of modern digital forensic technologies. Methodologically, the study employs an interdisciplinary approach that combines content analysis, historical and legal methods, case studies, and legal modeling. Materials and judicial practice of international tribunals, including the ICC, are studied. In this case, particular attention should be paid to the use of artificial intelligence, satellite analytics, 3D modeling, OSINT, and remote collection of digital evidence. Based on international experience and lessons learned from other armed conflicts, the article offers practical recommendations aimed at improving investigation methods and mechanisms for bringing to justice those guilty of committing war crimes. Practical examples of integrating such tools into the investigation process are also considered, in particular, the use of virtual modeling by the Bavarian police. The evolution of IHL in the context of state responsibility, as well as the legal assessment of crimes committed in occupied territories, is also analyzed.
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