Russian economy battered by new sanctions & how Putin's forces ‘deliberately starved’ Ukrainian civilians in Mariupol
Jun 13, 2024
auto_awesome
Former NATO Tank Commander Hamish De Bretton Gordon discusses Russian military tactics in Ukraine, including deliberate starvation of civilians in Mariupol. The podcast covers the impact of new US sanctions, investigations into war crimes, and challenges in prosecuting atrocities in conflicts.
Russian forces deliberately starved Mariupol civilians, constituting war crimes.
Ukrainian forces achieved potential air parity, signaling tactical advancements.
Investigation reveals deliberate Russian use of starvation as a weapon of war.
Deep dives
Recent Updates and Developments in Ukraine
Recent updates from across Ukraine are discussed, including Russian attacks killing civilians, Ukrainian special forces attacking Russia's digital communications station, Russia conducting drills on deploying nuclear weapons, and the Ukraine Defense Contact Group meeting at NATO headquarters.
Report on Alleged Deliberate Starvation of Civilians in Mariupol
A recent report alleges that Russian forces deliberately starved civilians during the siege of Mariupol, aiming to accelerate the surrender of Ukrainian armed forces. The report examines satellite imagery, photos, videos, and public statements to identify patterns of targeting essential infrastructure, impeding aid access, and arresting civilians, potentially constituting a war crime of starvation.
Implications of Western Aid and Tactical Developments in Ukraine
Significant tactical developments in Ukraine, such as achieving potential air parity, launching attacks deep into Russia, and addressing Russian use of chemical weapons, are discussed. Observations point towards potential turning points in Ukraine's favor amid ongoing military and diplomatic efforts.
Russia's Deliberate Use of Starvation as a Weapon in Mariupol
The report reveals Russia's deliberate use of starvation as a weapon of war during the Mariupol siege, following a 12-month investigation. Through analysis, four distinct phases were identified: initial targeting of civilian infrastructure, denial of humanitarian evacuation, branding the situation a humanitarian catastrophe, and a strategic attack leading to capitulation. The pattern of conduct indicated intentional starvation to accelerate the city's capture.
Significance of Investigating Starvation as a War Crime in Mariupol
The investigation marks the first comprehensive look into possible starvation war crimes in Mariupol. The report highlights attacks on civilians and infrastructure as a deliberate pattern, potentially constituting various war crimes. The significance lies in framing this behavior as a crime, shedding light on the human impact and aiming for accountability through legal and international processes.
Today, we bring you the latest military updates from the front lines and discuss a recent report that alleges Russia deliberately starved civilians during the siege of Mariupol.
Contributors:
David Knowles (Host). @DJKnowles on X
Francis Dearnley (Assistant Comment Editor). @FrancisDearnley on X.
Dom Nicholls (Associate Editor, Defence). @DomNicholls on X.
Hamish De Bretton Gordon (Former NATO Tank Commander). @HamishDBG on X.
Roland Oliphant (Senior Foreign Reporter). @RolandOliphant on Twitter
Catriona Murdoch (Senior legal consultant at Global Rights Compliance). @CatrionaMurdoc1 on X.