Russia Systematically Prepared Genocide of Ukrainians Before Invasion, Says Budanov
Ukraine’s Chief of Defense Intelligence, Kyrylo Budanov, has accused Russia of systematically planning the genocide of Ukrainians long before launching its full-scale invasion in February 2022. Speaking at a forum on November 22, Budanov detailed chilling evidence of premeditated efforts by Moscow to eliminate Ukrainian identity, culture, and leadership.
According to Budanov, the Russian military-political leadership devised plans that included execution lists, mobile crematoria, and mass burial sites as part of their genocidal strategy. These revelations were shared during the forum “Russia’s Genocidal Practices in Ukraine: From the Holodomor to the Russo-Ukrainian War,” attended by international scholars and human rights advocates.
Evidence of Genocidal Intent
Budanov linked these preparations to a broader pattern of Ukrainophobia ingrained in Russian society and state policy. He cited a July 2021 article by Russian President Vladimir Putin denying Ukraine’s right to exist as a nation, describing it as a “doctrinal foundation for genocide.”
“Russia’s propaganda, its leadership, and state apparatus systematically called for the destruction of Ukrainians,” Budanov stated.
He pointed to specific groups targeted by Russia’s execution lists, including:
- Ukrainian language and literature teachers
- Veterans of the Anti-Terrorist Operation (ATO)
- Journalists and scientists
- Clergy of the Orthodox Church of Ukraine
- Public figures and local government leaders
These targets were part of a systematic effort to erase Ukrainian identity and governance, Budanov argued.
Mass Crimes Confirm Pre-Invasion Plans
The atrocities committed by Russian forces in cities like Bucha, Borodianka, Mariupol, Izium, and Hostomel have provided further evidence of Russia’s genocidal intent, according to Budanov. Reports of mass graves, civilian executions, and torture in these areas align with what he described as “clear doctrinal principles of Russia’s genocidal policy.”
“The scale and coordination of these crimes demonstrate that they were not random acts of violence but part of a deliberate and systematic strategy,” he emphasized.
Historical Continuity of Genocide
The forum drew parallels between Russia’s current actions and the Holodomor, the 1932–1933 Soviet-engineered famine that killed millions of Ukrainians. Scholars and participants explored how Russia’s current war in Ukraine continues a historical pattern of denying Ukrainian sovereignty and committing atrocities against its people.
Budanov noted that widespread Ukrainophobia—promoted at all levels of Russian society—has been instrumental in fueling these actions.
International Implications
The revelations come as Ukraine intensifies efforts to hold Russia accountable for war crimes and acts of genocide. The systematic nature of the crimes strengthens Ukraine’s case in international courts, including ongoing proceedings at the International Criminal Court (ICC).
Global leaders and human rights organizations have condemned Russia’s actions in Ukraine. The forum’s findings are expected to further galvanize calls for accountability and recognition of Russia’s actions as genocide.
Looking Ahead
As Ukraine continues to document evidence of Russian atrocities, Budanov’s statements underline the urgent need for international intervention and justice. The world must confront the scale and intent of Russia’s actions to ensure accountability and prevent further atrocities.
The forum serves as a stark reminder of the historical and ongoing threats to Ukrainian sovereignty—and the resilience of its people in the face of such challenges.