Those responsible for violations of International Humanitarian Law will be held accountable, EU High Representative Josep Borrell warned Russia on 25 March, following the adoption of a UN resolution concerning the situation in Ukraine, adopted on Thursday by the United Nations General Assembly.
The resolution deplores the dire humanitarian consequences of the aggression by the Russian Federation against Ukraine and demands an immediate cessation of attacks against civilians. It also demands safe and unhindered passage for civilians fleeing the violence, as well as safe humanitarian access to those in need. It gathered overwhelming support from all regions of the world, with 140 countries in favour and only 5 against.
“One month on, Russia continues with attacks against Ukraine’s civilian population and infrastructure on a daily basis. Those fleeing besieged cities are being targeted, schools, hospitals, and residential buildings are being shelled There are reports of cluster munition being used in populated areas,” Borrell said. “These deliberate attacks on civilians are shameful, reprehensible and constitute serious violations of international humanitarian law. They must stop now and Russia must withdraw all of its military forces from the territory of Ukraine – immediately, completely and unconditionally.”
The EU also supported the UN Secretary General’s initiative to set up a Global Crisis Group to identify concrete measures in addressing the risk of food insecurity provoked by the war in Ukraine.
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“As the resolution adopted by the General Assembly shows, our resolve is strong. The world must remain united against the flagrant violations by Russia of the United Nations Charter, international law and human rights,” said Borrell.