UN Human Rights Council 49: UK statement for the interactive dialogue on the High Commissioner’s oral report on Ukraine

High Commissioner: thank you for your harrowing update.

It is clear that President Putin is hell-bent on reducing Ukraine’s towns and cities to dust. Thousands of people, including children, have lost their lives as Putin resorts to indiscriminate bombing to achieve his aims, with complete disregard for human rights.

We are appalled by the growing number of innocent civilians, including journalists and local government representatives, being subjected to abduction and deportation by Russian forces. Local politicians and civil society actors are fundamental to a democratic society and it is contemptible that Russia has taken steps against them.

The Kremlin has spent eight years denying its abuses and violations in Crimea. This afternoon in this Council it is again seeking to hide its egregious actions in Ukraine behind a litany of lies and a deluge of disinformation. The new Commission of Inquiry is an important step to investigate and record the reality of Russia’s abuses and violations. Accountability matters. The truth matters.

But that is not enough. The only way to end the immense suffering caused by Russia’s unprovoked onslaught is for Russia to cease its aggression and withdraw its troops.

High Commissioner,

How can the international community support Ukrainian communities who are directly affected by Russia’s aggression?