According to Kostin, Ukraine is the first country in the world that, in the midst of active combat, not only documents but also investigates war crimes.
"A total of 721 suspects have been identified, 514 indictments have been submitted to the court, and 133 war criminals have received actual judicial sentences," he noted.
Kostin emphasized that particular attention was given to ensuring accountability for the aggressor state, Russia, for crimes that have caused "widespread long-term damage to future generations." This includes war crimes against the environment, ecocide, and the enemy's crimes against Ukraine's cultural heritage.
The Attorney General reminded that, thanks to systematic cooperation with the International Criminal Court, the world witnessed the first historic arrest warrants for the illegitimate Russian President Vladimir Putin, the Commissioner for Children's Rights under the President of the Russian Federation Maria Lvova-Belova, and four others from the top military leadership of Russia.
"We have also established cooperation with over 20 countries that have begun their own investigations into Russia's war crimes based on the principle of universal jurisdiction. Charges have already been brought against Russian military personnel in the cases of the USA and Lithuania," he pointed out.
At the same time, Kostin acknowledged that "not all systemic issues have been resolved" during his tenure.
"Therefore, following European practices, as a person politically responsible for the actions of subordinates, I have made the decision to submit my resignation, which I have asked the Verkhovna Rada to support," the prosecutor wrote.
He expressed gratitude to the parliament, President Volodymyr Zelensky, colleagues, and military personnel.
"On our path to a great victory, everyone can make mistakes. But I would like us to always remember our achievements as well. After all, a great victory consists of the daily victories of each and every one who defends us on the front lines and works for the future of our state," Kostin wrote.
To complete the resignation procedure of the Attorney General, the corresponding decree still needs to be signed by the president after the decision of the Verkhovna Rada.