Compliance with international humanitarian law norms in the destruction of military objects and military targets

Abstract

This article is devoted to the analysis of international humanitarian law norms regarding compliance with the principles of lawfulness in the destruction of military objects and military targets in the context of modern armed conflicts. The evolution of the concept of «military target» is studied from the traditional understanding of fortresses and fortifications to the modern definition enshrined in Additional Protocol I to the Geneva Conventions of 1977. The historical development of the laws of war from the Hague Conventions to modern international standards governing the conduct of armed conflicts is analysed. Special attention is paid to the principle of distinction between military and civilian objects, the presumption of inviolability of civilian structures and population, as well as requirements for minimizing losses among the civilian population during military operations. Issues of proportionality of military actions, prohibition of mass bombing of populated areas, and the obligation to use precision weapons to reduce collateral losses are examined. The authors analyse modern challenges in applying international humanitarian law norms in the context of military technology development and the emergence of precision-guided weapons. The article emphasizes the necessity of independent assessment of the ratio between potential civilian casualties and obtained military advantages. Special attention is paid to the analysis of violations of international humanitarian law norms in the context of Russian aggression against Ukraine.