Is Russia’s Invasion Of Ukraine A ‘Just War’?

Introduction

On February 24, 2022, Russian forces invaded Ukraine. This event has been described as Europe's biggest land war in decades, with far-reaching implications for the region and the world. In this article, we will explore the reasons behind Russia's invasion of Ukraine, and examine the arguments for and against the war being considered 'just'.

Russia's Justification

Russia has claimed that its invasion of Ukraine is a 'special military operation' designed to 'demilitarise and denazify' Ukraine. Russia has accused Ukraine of carrying out genocide against Russian speakers in the eastern Donbas region, and claims it is intervening to protect its own interests and those of its citizens in Ukraine. However, these claims have been widely disputed by Ukraine and its allies, who argue that Russia's invasion is an unprovoked act of aggression.

Arguments For A Just War

Some have argued that Russia's invasion of Ukraine can be justified under the principles of a 'just war'. Just war theory is a set of ethical principles that attempt to provide a framework for when and how war can be considered morally justified. Traditional just war theory has two main branches: the jus ad bellum (justice of going to war), and the jus in bello (justice in war).

Those who argue that Russia's invasion of Ukraine is justified under the jus ad bellum often point to the three criteria set out by Hugo Grotius in the 17th century. These criteria are: that the war must be declared by a legitimate authority, that it must have a just cause (such as selfdefence or the protection of innocent lives), and that it must have a reasonable chance of success.

Those who argue that Russia's invasion of Ukraine is justified under the jus in bello often point to the principles of proportionality, discrimination, and necessity. Proportionality means that the force used must be proportionate to the harm caused. Discrimination means that only military targets can be attacked and that civilians must be protected. Necessity means that war must be the last resort and that all other peaceful options have been exhausted.

Arguments Against A Just War

Many have argued that Russia's invasion of Ukraine does not meet the criteria for a just war. They argue that the war was not declared by a legitimate authority (as it was not approved by the UN Security Council), that it does not have a just cause (as there is no evidence of genocide in Ukraine), and that it does not have a reasonable chance of success (as Russia is facing fierce resistance from the Ukrainian military).

They also argue that Russia's invasion of Ukraine violates the principles of proportionality, discrimination, and necessity. They point to the fact that the war has caused widespread death and destruction in Ukraine, that civilians have been deliberately targeted, and that Russia has not exhausted all other peaceful options.

Conclusion

The question of whether or not Russia's invasion of Ukraine is a 'just war' is a complex one. There are strong arguments to be made on both sides of the debate. Ultimately, it is up to each individual to decide whether or not they believe that the war is justified.