The first trial of a Russian occupier begins in Kyiv: he pleads guilty

SONIA LUKASHOVA

The first war crimes trial against the occupiers has begun: Russian Vadim Shishimarin is accused of killing a civilian in the Sumy region.

Source: "Ukrainska Pravda" correspondent from the courtroom

Details: The case will be heard by the bench of the Solomianskyi District Court of Kyiv. It has scheduled the proceedings for 13 May. The next session will take place on 18 May.

The Russian was given a free lawyer and interpreter. He is charged under two articles: murder, and violation of the laws and customs of law.

So far, neither the defendant nor his defence counsel have stated their position.

Meanwhile, prosecutor Yaroslav Ushchapivskyi said in a comment to "Ukrainska Pravda" that during the investigation, Shishimarin admitted his guilt, repented and cooperated with the investigation.

The prosecutor claims that the guilt of the Russian soldier is proved not only by his words, but also by expert analyses and the testimony of witnesses. Among other things, the investigation seized the weapon from which Shishimarin fired, as well as the weapons of other people who were with him in the vehicle.

Vadim Shishimarin is 21 years old. He served in the 4th Panzer Kantemirov Division of the Moscow Oblast. He was the commander of the tank division.

According to the investigation, on 28 February, he killed an unarmed resident of the village of Chupakhivka, Sumy Oblast, who was riding a bicycle along the roadside.

Shishimarin was later taken prisoner.

What happened before:

• 4 of May, the Security Service of Ukraine released a video of occupier Shishimarin confessing to killing civilians.

• 11 of May, the prosecutor's office announced that his case had been sent to court.