Davout's conduct in Hamburg was considered a 'war crime' by whom? False charges were brought against him by the Bourbons after Davout returned to France and Davout successfully defended himself against the false charges.

Davout never lost, took proper care of the troops in his charge and was an admirable man and soldier. The same cannot be said for Bernadotte or Dupont. Dupont allowed looting in Spain, something Davout never did, and it has been shown that Bernadotte was an unreliable subordinate and comrade.

I don't see a problem with a commander being 'ruthless' in the accomplishment of his mission.

Sincerely,
M