Analysis: There are many international law implications from Russia’s invasion of Ukraine, especially those laws governing the conduct of hostilities

The number of civilians killed during Russia’s invasion of Ukraine is continuing to rise. There is a real risk the conflict will become more brutal and destructive the longer it continues. The conduct of hostilities by Russian forces in previous conflicts such as Chechnya was characterised by its indiscriminate nature and brutality.

Based on the lack of respect for international law by Russian troops in other settings in recent years, which has been met with impunity, Amnesty International expressed extreme concern about the likelihood of history repeating itself. For this reason it is worth considering some of the international law implications, especially the laws governing the conduct of hostilities. Continue reading…