As people and governments consider how to end Russia’s genocidal war on Ukraine and the West, we seldom hear anyone addressing a fundamental requirement: if Russia and the leaders of other demonic states are going to learn that aggression against sovereign nations will not be allowed to stand — Russia and its leaders must be held accountable.

War criminals are war criminals and must be punished.

It is a basic concept and truth — crimes must be punished, not doing so leads to more crime.

Half measures will not suffice — Russia must be defeated, and its war criminals must be called to account.

In the article below David Crane, chairman of the U.S.-Ukraine Foundation’s FOUN Working Group on Accountability for Russian Federation International Crimes, argues we must not walk away from Ukraine.

JURISTnews

Commentary

Former UN Prosecutor: The Democratic World Cannot Afford to Walk Away From Ukraine

David M. Crane | Founding Chief Prosecutor of the UN Special Court for Sierra Leone

January 13, 2025 12:21:48 pm

Edited by: Ingrid Burke Friedman | JURIST Editorial Director

The author argues that abandoning Ukraine would not only betray democratic values and embolden Putin's aggression, but would also signal to authoritarian regimes worldwide that they can act with impunity by simply outlasting the resolve of democratic nations...

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In recent years, the plight of Ukraine has become a focal point in the global struggle for democracy and freedom. As the Ukrainian people continue to endure relentless aggression from Russia, it is crucial for the world community to recognize the significant stakes involved in this conflict. The shadows of past failures, like those witnessed in Syria, loom large; history warns that turning our backs on Ukraine might not only perpetuate injustice but also contribute to a more unstable world. Ukraine stands at a pivotal crossroads — a frontline in the battle for democratic values, and it is a commitment we cannot afford to retreat from.

Ukraine’s fight against Russian imperialism is not merely a regional dispute; it is a battle for the very essence of democracy. The Ukrainian people have exhibited remarkable resilience, bravely standing against overwhelming odds in defense of their sovereignty and rights. They embody the spirit of freedom, and their struggle represents a larger campaign against authoritarianism in all its forms. The world must recognize that this fight is emblematic of the values we hold dear: self-determination, democracy, and human rights. Walking away from Ukraine would send a grave message that the international community is willing to abandon these principles when faced with adversity.

Unfortunately, the global perception of the Ukrainian conflict has often been overshadowed by competing crises and distractions. As political attention flits from one urgent issue to another, the risk of underestimating the importance of Ukraine mounts. Russian President Vladimir Putin has capitalized on this distraction — his strategy hinges on wearing down the resolve of democracies, particularly in Europe, where political will is often tenuous. The fickleness of democratic leadership in Europe has been evident over the past decades, and this perceived weakness is something Putin exploits with precision. He understands that time is on his side; prolonged inaction will allow his narrative to take root while weakening support for Ukraine.

Recently, however, there have been signs of renewed commitment from European leaders, especially in the context of shifting dynamics like the return of a Trump administration in the United States. The concerns surrounding America’s leadership role on the global stage have made European unity and proactive measures imperative. It is increasingly clear that Europe must step into its role as a leader and fortify its stance on Ukraine. Any perceived diminishment of support risks emboldening not only Russian aggression but also the ideology underpinning it, which threatens the fabric of democracy across Europe and beyond.

We must recognize that support for Ukraine cannot merely be about military aid or financial assistance; it must also include an unequivocal political backing that reinforces the rule of law. A comprehensive and robust support package for Ukraine is essential — not just for its immediate survival, but for establishing a precedent that aggression has consequences. The international community must stand united in its resolve to support Ukraine, conveying a message that we will not allow the rule of law to be undermined by the despotic ambitions of Putin.

Moreover, there is a pressing need to establish accountability for Putin’s actions. The creation of a multinational court spearheaded by the Council of Europe and guided by the Core Group of Nations is crucial for this purpose. An international legal framework must hold Putin to account, ensuring that his aggression does not go unchecked. Justice is not merely a domestic concern for Ukraine; it is a fundamental principle that resonates with all nations striving for peace and stability. Investigating and prosecuting those responsible for violations of international law sends an unequivocal message: there are boundaries that cannot be crossed without repercussions.

The international community must not take a step back from Ukraine. Instead of allowing distraction and fatigue to diminish our resolve with possible negative meddling by the United States, we should draw on the lessons of history and rise to the occasion. Ukraine’s fight represents not only its own future but also the future of democratic values worldwide. Walking away would not only risk further violence and instability in Ukraine but also embolden authoritarian regimes everywhere.

By committing to a strong legal, political, and military European support package for Ukraine and ensuring that justice prevails through international accountability, we recognize the importance of standing firm in the face of tyranny. Ukraine is worth fighting for — not just for its own sake but for the broader fight for freedom and democracy that influences every corner of the globe. We cannot afford to walk away; we must stand with Ukraine now and into the future.

Let us prove Putin wrong in showing that time and distraction are not his ultimate weapons.

David M. Crane is the Founding Chief Prosecutor for the UN Special Court for Sierra Leone. He is also the founder of the Global Accountability Network, which houses the Ukraine Accountability Project, and is part of a high level working group assisting in the creation of a multinational court for Ukraine on the crime of aggression. ‍

ROBERT MCCONNELL
Co-Founder, U.S.-Ukraine Foundation
Director of External Affairs, Friends of Ukraine Network

The introduction and parenthetical comments are Mr. McConnell’s and does not necessarily represent the views of the U.S.-Ukraine Foundation or those of the Friends of Ukraine Network (FOUN).

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