In my past life involving investigation reviews, America’s adherence to doing what is right was a source of pride. In Vietnam our military conducted investigations into alleged war crimes. I can attest that I never saw any evidence that the enemy was one bit concerned about following the law of land warfare. Our side was not immune from violating international law but I recall that in training and in the field, doing what was right in a combat context was stressed. And, when violations occurred or possibly happened by US forces, an investigation was required. I always came away with the impression that the investigations I reviewed were thorough and above board. In wartime it may not alays be easy to take the time and put in the effort to investigate but America’s military did so in solid fashion.
Complete truth may not always be possible in the short term but accountability was the ultimate goal. After action investigations were pursued even if facts didn’t come out until much later. I feel very comfortable saying that I never had cause to doubt that sincere attempts were made by America for finding the facts and accountability. Wherever the chips might fall. War is horrible but nations and citizens owe an obligation to abide by international law.
There is little doubt that war crimes are being committed with the current Russian invasion. It may take time but it is to be hoped that at some point a forum will exist at which violators are subject to accountability.