The Russian invasion of Ukraine has challenged many international norms, including the prohibition on state aggression and the protection of civilians. Russian forces are not hiding their crimes; they attack civilian targets with missiles and have committed numerous atrocities in occupied areas. How can Russian leaders and forces be held accountable for these offenses? While policymakers are pursuing a number of options to achieve justice, it may be years before we truly understand the gravity of the war and its impact on Ukrainians.

Christi Siver is a Professor of Political Science at the College of Saint Benedict and Saint John’s University. She earned a Masters in International Relations and International Economics from the Johns Hopkins School of Advanced International Studies in Washington, D.C. and her Ph.D. in Political Science from the University of Washington. Her research interests are at the intersection of human rights and international security. She teaches courses in International Relations, Ethics of War, Globalization, and International Security.