Spiritual adviser to the US President, Mark Burns, emphasised that addressing Russian war crimes in Ukraine is essential for meaningful peace negotiations.
Ukrinform reported Burns argued that accountability for civilian suffering should remain central to diplomatic discussions involving Russia.
Burns described the war as more than a territorial conflict, characterising it as a systematic campaign of terror that causes profound civilian suffering, which should deeply resonate with the audience’s sense of compassion and justice.
He highlighted allegations that Russian forces have bombed medical facilities, including hospitals, Targeted educational institutions such as schools, and caused civilian deaths, including children.
Russian forces have created conditions where families could not reach victims during attacks.
He argued these actions represent violations of fundamental humanitarian principles rather than conventional wartime operations.
Burns warned that overlooking alleged atrocities could undermine efforts for justice, emphasising that accountability is essential to building a credible, lasting peace that the audience can believe in and support.
Burns stated that justice must be part of any lasting resolution, emphasising that crimes against humanity should not be dismissed during negotiations.
He also reiterated his continued support for Ukraine until hostilities and bombing campaigns cease.
The investigations, reported by The Sunday Times and legal researchers, aim to provide clarity on civilian killings in Bucha, fostering trust in accountability efforts.
The reports named 13 Russian officers and senior military commanders allegedly linked to the operation, and more than 80 Russian soldiers were reportedly identified in connection with the events.
Ukraine and several Western governments have described the Bucha events as potential war crimes. At the same time, Russia has repeatedly denied targeting civilians and has disputed the allegations, highlighting the contentious nature of the accusations.
The issue of accountability has become a major diplomatic obstacle in discussions about potential ceasefire frameworks, with Ukrainian officials and the international community emphasising that justice mechanisms-such as international tribunals- must be part of any settlement to uphold our shared moral duty for lasting peace.
