The Permanent Representative of Italy to the United Nations and other International Organizations in Geneva, Ambassador Vincenzo Grassi, took the floor today during the Interactive dialogue with the Independent International Commission of Inquiry on Ukraine, in the framework of the 54th session of the Human Rights Council.
“The position of the Government of Italy on the Russian aggression against Ukraine, a blatant violation of the United Charter, is very clear”, he underlined, “We stand with Ukraine and its people, which are fighting to defend their freedom, sovereignty, independence and territorial integrity”.
“This unprovoked and unjustified war continues to cause enormous suffering to the Ukrainian people, including children and other innocent civilians”, stated Ambassador Grassi, while reiterating Italy’s support “for the investigations by the Commission of Inquiry and other initiatives to ensure accountability for the violations of human rights and international humanitarian law and related crimes in Ukraine, including attacks on civilians and civilian infrastructure, summary executions, torture, sexual and gender-based violence, as well as unlawful transfers and deportations of children”.
“The repercussions of the conflict in Ukraine affect all our societies and in particular the most vulnerable countries, including in terms of food insecurity and therefore Italy firmly condemns Russia’s decision to suspend participation in the Black Sea Grain Initiative”, the Permanent Representative stated further.
In conclusion, Ambassador Grassi underlined that“A comprehensive, just and lasting peace remains our ultimate goal and Italy supports “President Zelensky’s 10-point peace formula” and is also at the forefront of reconstructions efforts in Ukraine, which will be one of the top priorities of the Italian Presidency of the G7 next year.”
Read the full statement here.