Under normal circumstances, this trial could have lasted several years. The first war crime trial of a Russian serviceman was one of intense interest and rare speed in Ukraine. A young sergeant, Vadim Shishimarin, who pleaded guilty to the murder of a civilian, was sentenced yesterday to life in jail. Both Ukrainian society and the legal system appeared to be unprepared, says Irina Salii from “Sudovyi Reporter” (The Judicial Reporter), who is an experienced court reporter in Ukraine.