Although Western leaders have begun to label Russian atrocities in Ukraine as genocide, legal scholars say the burden of proof for such a definition is difficult to meet. 

Speaking to Law360, Professor Patrick Keenan said he thinks the evidence that has emerged so far doesn't support an intent to systematically annihilate the Ukrainian population.

"We need more evidence," he said. "What's happening in Ukraine, as tragic as that is, it looks like this is abuse of civilians, which is awful and illegal. But that's what the category of crimes against humanity is for."

Read the full article at law360.com.