Russian President Vladimir Putin and his cadre of government and military officials have, since the start of their “special military operation” against Ukraine, consistently maintained that they do not target civilians, residential buildings, or civilian infrastructure.
Well, then, the world would like them to explain this:
(The mother and her unborn child did not survive)
. . . and this:
. . . and this:
. . . and this:
And now, based on interviews with 226 victims, witnesses, aid workers, and local authorities, in addition to hundreds of verified online videos, the United Nations Independent International Commission of Inquiry on Ukraine has found that Russian forces have been using drones to chase civilians from their homes in Ukrainian-held territory near the front lines, following them with cameras and attacking them as they attempt to flee to shelter.
The Commission’s report on its inquiry is to be presented to the UN General Assembly this week. It states in part that the attacks “amount to the crime against humanity of forcible transfer of population. . . . Russian authorities have systematically coordinated actions to drive out Ukrainian civilians from their place of residence by drone attacks, as well as deportations and transfers.” [RFE/RL, October 28, 2025.]
The report continues: “For over one year, Russian armed forces have been directing drone attacks against an extensive range of civilian targets, including people, houses or buildings, humanitarian distribution points, and critical energy infrastructure. . . . [Russian troops] intentionally target civilians and civilian objects and cause harm and destruction. They even hit first responders . . .” — including ambulance crews and firefighters, despite the clear markings on their vehicles. [Id.]
The Commission has previously charged Russia with war crimes and possible crimes against humanity in connection with the forced transfer and deportation (translation: kidnapping) of Ukrainian children. But Russia does not recognize the authority of the Commission, and has not responded to requests for access, information and meetings.
Yet the evidence is clear and damning. So, in the face of their continued denials, how can we be expected to trust anything they say?
The truth is, we can’t. And Donald Trump’s belief that he understands Vladimir Putin, or has any influence over him, is nothing but a pipe dream.
Just sayin’ . . .
Brendochka
10/28/25
The Blog About Everything … and Sometimes Nothing 