Conflict researcher Wolfgang Dietrich of the University of Innsbruck in the “Krone” interview about the terrible photos of Butscha, why he does not believe in individual actions of Russian soldiers – and why the war crimes will not be the last.
Crown Mr Dietrich, how do scenes like the one in Butscha affect a conflict?
Wolfgang Dietrich: The images we see of these atrocities are part of the communication. On the Ukrainian side, I can generate international outrage with them, which could lead to more aid. I can use such imagery on the perpetrator’s side to intimidate the enemy. Unfortunately, crimes against civilians, including mass rape, are part of warfare.
So you assume the massacres were ordered?
Yes, I think there was a chain of command here. This was ordered psychological warfare. For the common soldiers who pulled the trigger, that doesn’t automatically mean they’re innocent. We have known since the Nuremberg Trials that emergency orders are no excuse for such atrocities.
Does it make any difference that there are two regular armies involved here? And no guerrilla or terrorist gangs?
That really makes a difference. Every officer knows what war crimes are. Anyone who initiates such a thing in this conflict is trained in international law and does so in math.
How are these photos received in Russia?
With a different interpretation. If the photos are real, they could also be used by the Russian side as evidence of Ukrainian shelling of their own people. I see no mass outrage against Putin in Russia based on the photos from Bucha.
And how lasting will the outcry in the West be?
I’m afraid this isn’t the end of the story. It’s just an episode. Unfortunately, in this conflict we will be confronted even more often with images such as those from Bucha.
Source: Krone
I’m Wayne Wickman, a professional journalist and author for Today Times Live. My specialty is covering global news and current events, offering readers a unique perspective on the world’s most pressing issues. I’m passionate about storytelling and helping people stay informed on the goings-on of our planet.
