Ukraine Begins First War Crimes Trial Of Russian Soldier

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Ukraine Begins First War Crimes Trial Of Russian Soldier

Ukraine has started its first war crimes trial since the beginning of Russia’s invasion, with a 21-year-old soldier appearing in the dock accused of killing an unarmed civilian.

Vadim Shishimarin appeared at a preliminary hearing in Kyiv. He faces life in prison if convicted.

Ukraine says it has identified thousands of potential war crimes committed by Russia.

Russia has denied targeting civilians and made no comment on the trial.

Prosecutors say Mr Shishimarin was driving in a stolen vehicle with other soldiers in the north-eastern Sumy region when they encountered a 62-year-old cyclist using a phone.

He was ordered to shoot the civilian to stop them from telling Ukrainian defenders about their location, according to the prosecutors.

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