Documenting war crimes is becoming a key tool for understanding the conflict in Eastern Ukraine, where local investigators are collecting irrefutable material evidence of Russian aggression.
In a secret location near Kharkiv, there exists a unique collection of metal remains that reveal the true scale of destruction. Dmytro Chubenko from the regional prosecutor's office emphasizes: "These material evidence will prove Russia's guilt for the committed war crimes".
Experts reveal surprising facts about the weapons used. For example, Iranian-model kamikaze drones cost around $20,000, while cruise missiles reach millions. Paradoxically, these weapon systems contain components from Western countries, which shows serious gaps in the sanctions regime.
Colonel Sergiy Bolvinov, who investigates each civilian loss, demonstrates the scale of the tragedy. In the Kharkiv region, nearly 3,000 civilians have died, including 97 children. His team of 1,000 employees documents every incident with the precision of a criminal investigator.
The personal story of Yulia, mother of 14-year-old Sofia, who died from a Russian glide bomb, touches the emotional essence of the conflict. She skeptically comments on diplomatic efforts: "These talks have been going on too long, without real results".
President Trump takes unprecedented steps, threatening secondary sanctions on all countries trading with Russia. His special envoy Steve Whitcoff held negotiations in Moscow, trying to achieve a truce before a Friday deadline.
The investigation reveals that sanctions have a limited effect. The Russian military industry demonstrates flexibility in circumventing them, using imported components and alternative supplies. Dmytro Chubenko firmly states: "We need to act, but we can't stop everything with a snap of the fingers".
Military analysts emphasize that true pressure can only come through economic channels - specifically by limiting oil and gas exports. Each sanction must be precisely planned and executed.
The cemeteries near Kharkiv serve as a silent monument to the losses. Each grave, marked with the national colors blue and yellow, tells a story of personal tragedy and national resistance.
Colonel Bolvinov summarizes the philosophy of Ukrainian resistance with an eloquent quote: "Peace without justice is not true peace". This position emphasizes that the conflict goes beyond military actions and touches deep moral and ethical layers.
The international community increasingly realizes that sanctions are only one of the tools in the complex mechanism for stopping aggression. A comprehensive approach is needed, combining economic, diplomatic, and legal measures.
While diplomatic maneuvers continue, Ukrainians remain firmly determined to defend their territory and dignity, regardless of the challenges.