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**The Dark Truth Behind Russia’s Numbers**

A century ago, Pulitzer laureate Walter Duranty wrote a infamous article that downplayed the scale of Stalin’s genocide in Ukraine. Today, we see a similar pattern with the reporting on Russia’s war crimes in Ukraine.

**”Civilian Casualties”: A Misleading Term**

When talking about war, it’s tempting to use phrases like “civilian casualties.” But what does this term really mean? Does it capture the intentional targeting and murder of civilians by Russian troops? Or is it just a convenient way to downplay the scale of atrocities?

**The UN’s Undercount**

Despite overwhelming evidence of war crimes committed by Russia, international media and institutions continue to rely on the UN’s official figure of around 13,000 civilian deaths. This number reflects only what can be double-confirmed, not what can be reasonably known. The true toll is far higher.

**Access Issues**

In occupied areas, independent investigators have not been allowed in. Phone lines are cut, media is silenced, and locals are terrified to speak. As a result, many civilian deaths remain unrecorded. When these areas are liberated, the truth emerges. In Bucha, more than 400 bodies were found after Russian troops retreated – many with their hands tied, shot at close range.

**Consequences of War**

We must also consider the thousands of civilians who have died due to war conditions: lack of medical care, starvation, and attacks on infrastructure. These deaths are rarely included in the UN’s figures, but they’re no less a consequence of Russia’s aggression.

**Filtration Camps: A Hidden Scourge**

Thousands of Ukrainian civilians have been abducted, forcibly deported, or detained in Russian-controlled facilities – many tortured, many executed. Their names are missing from official lists. Their families receive no information.

**The 13,000 Figure: A Misleading Safety Net**

Journalists and policymakers lean on the UN’s undercount to avoid being accused of speculation. But what protects a reputation more: repeating an official undercount that serves Russian propaganda, or confronting uncomfortable truths?

**A Lesson from History**

In 1942, journalists who reported on the Nazi genocide were not remembered as alarmists, but for recognizing the scale of the crime as it was unfolding. Today, we have a similar opportunity to stand up against Russian propaganda and demand truth.

**Kate Turska: A Voice for Truth**

Kate Turska, a New Zealand citizen originally from Ukraine, has been deeply involved in the Ukrainian community in New Zealand. Following Russia’s invasion of Ukraine, she co-founded Mahi for Ukraine and has led the initiative since. In June 2023, Kate was sanctioned by the Russian Federation.

**A Call to Action**

As we reflect on the past, let us not forget the victims of war crimes. Let us demand truth, not just a comforting undercount. Anything less is complicity by omission.

Read More @ kyivindependent.com

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