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The Inquiry: Can Putin be prosecuted for war crimes?

Can Putin be prosecuted for war crimes?

31/03/2022 GMT

BBC World Service - The Inquiry, Can Putin be prosecuted for war crimes?

What counts as a war crime and can Vladimir Putin be held responsible?

Russia is being investigated for war crimes committed in Ukraine. Can Vladimir Putin be held to account and prosecuted?

On Wednesday 23 March the US administration declared that Russian troops had committed war crimes in Ukraine.  It claims to have evidence showing numerous deliberate attacks on civilians. An unprecedented number of countries have backed an investigation by the International Criminal Court into the allegations. The evidence is being gathered.  

Tanya Beckett explores whether it’s possible that Vladimir Putin will be held responsible and face trial for war crimes committed by his forces during this war.  

Producer:  Louise Clarke-Rowbotham
Researcher:  Chris Blake

(Banner reads 'Wanted Dead Or Alive Vladimir Putin For Genocide' in Przemysl, Poland. 5 March 2022. Credit: Beata Zawrzel /Getty Images)

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Can Putin be prosecuted for war crimes?

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