Bulgaria’s defense ministry: Russia committing systematic war crimes in Ukraine
The Russian army is committing systematic war crimes in Ukraine, according to a 2022 report by Bulgaria’s defense ministry published by the Council of Ministers this week.
That’s according to Euractiv, Ukrinform reports.
“The unjustified war in Ukraine, which was started in complete violation of international law, caused damage of particularly large proportions to all spheres of social and economic life. The Russian armed forces committed systematic war crimes” the report reads.
Russia’s full-scale armed conflict has a significant impact “not only on Ukraine and the region but in a global aspect,” officials add.
According to the document, the war led to the expansion of Russian hybrid sabotage against NATO and EU countries.
The intensification of Russian subversive hybrid operations is mentioned, as well as cyber security risks and weaponization of energy in Russia’s military-political campaign.
Higher risks are noted for the Black Sea, the Caucasus, Moldova, and Belarus.
According to the document, the war led to the expansion of Russian hybrid sabotage against NATO and EU member states.
“The purpose of these actions is aimed primarily at creating domestic political destabilisation and public opposition; impeding decisions to strengthen the Union’s deterrence and defence potential; reducing solidarity and support for Ukraine and the provision of timely and effective military assistance; continuing dependence on Russian energy supplies,” the report says.
Support for Ukraine is also embedded in the official document, stating that Bulgaria supports Ukraine’s legitimate efforts and actions to oppose Russian military aggression, including by providing military assistance.