The United Nations International Commission once again did not find evidence of genocide in Ukraine. This has sparked outrage in Kyiv. Experts have explained why it is important for Ukraine to have Western recognition of the genocide during the war. The United Nations International Commission tasked with investigating violations in Ukraine, as before, did not find sufficient evidence to conclude that genocide is occurring in the country. According to the commission’s head, Erik Møse, there are stringent conditions for such a qualification. “Firstly, there must be “intent” to destroy a specific group. And such destruction, according to the Convention, must be physical or biological,” Erik Møse explained. In March 2023, the United Nations International Commission already published a report on the previous investigation of violations in Ukraine during the war. At that time, the commission’s head also stated that there were no signs of genocide. This caused a wave of criticism from Kyiv and angry accusations against the UN, almost bordering on siding with Russia. Human rights defenders explained that from a legal perspective, proving genocide is quite challenging. But even if the commissions manage to do so, and the fact of genocide in Ukraine is recognized at the international level, it does not necessarily mean that all war criminals who committed unlawful acts will be punished. At best, a tribunal may hold someone from the leadership of Russia accountable. Strengthening the condemnation of Russia According to experts, “genocide” carries significant weight for the international community. If the United Nations International Commission establishes that during Russia’s full-scale aggression against Ukraine, Russian troops not only committed war crimes but also deliberately destroyed Ukrainians as a nation, influential figures, such as the Pope, will find it uncomfortable to talk about Russia’s “great heritage.” “The Western community does not always delve into the details when it comes to Russia’s war against Ukraine. And if Russia’s actions are recognized as genocide, it will affect the statements of influential individuals. This fact will be impossible to ignore. And it will cross out sympathy for Russia. Because there are still political leaders in the West who support Russia’s aggression, and it will be harder for them to continue doing so,” says political expert Olexander Kochetkov to Focus media outlet. See also: With widely closed eyes: Crimes of Russia against Ukrainian children in the new report...