Finland has brought charges against Russian neo-Nazi Yan Petrovsky for committing five war crimes on the territory of Ukraine. Petrovsky belongs to Sabotage Assault Reconnaissance Group Rusich, a Russian far-right and neo-Nazi paramilitary unit.
Source: Finnish public service media company Yle, as reported by European Pravda
Details: Deputy Prosecutor General Jukka Rappe accused Petrovsky of five war crimes, which were likely committed in the autumn of 2014.
The Russian national is accused of taking part in actions that violate the laws and customs of war.
The prosecutors reported that Petrovsky and the unit’s members are accused of killing 22 Ukrainian troops and severely wounding 4 others.
Additionally, he is accused of violating military law regarding conduct in warfare and the treatment of injured or deceased soldiers.
Yle highlighted that this marks the first instance in Finnish history where war crimes charges have been filed against an individual involved in war crimes committed in Ukraine.
Finland regards the charges as international crimes under its domestic law.
Yle also adds that Petrovsky cannot be deported to Ukraine. Finland’s obligation to exercise its criminal jurisdiction takes precedence over the jurisdiction of the International Criminal Court in The Hague.
The case is being led by two prosecutors specialising in war and international crimes. The Helsinki District Court is to set a trial date.
Українська правда
