Is the Russian-Ukrainian Conflict Finally the Tipping Point for Criminal Liability when the Environmental and Natural Resources are Weaponized in Armed Conflict? An Analysis of the Karachun Dam Attack

Note By: Mary Jocelyn

In this Note, Mary Jocelyn argues that weaponizing and targeting the environment disrupts the balance of distinction, proportionality, and necessity that the law of armed conflict demands, meaning this act triggers criminal liability. Jocelyn analyzes the Rome Statue and ad hoc tribunals to determine their potential to enforce liability for wonton environmental destruction. Jocelyn discusses the Russian attacks on the Karachun Dam and Reservoir under this framework and argues that a hybrid ad hoc tribunal seems most appropriate to hold the Russian Federation actors accountable for the weaponization of the Karachun Dam and Reservoir.