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 on Ukraine with the High Commissioner for human rights, in the framework of the 57th session of the Human Rights Council.
“As repeatedly underlined by the G7 members, Ukraine is defending its freedom, sovereignty, independence and territorial integrity against Russia’s brutal and unjustifiable aggression, which must stop immediately and unconditionally” stated the Permanent Representative, adding that Italy continues to “condemn in the strongest possible terms Russia’s blatant breach of international law, including the UN Charter”.
“We are appalled by the evidence of the devastating impact of Russia’s attacks on the civilian population and civilian objects, including energy infrastructure, which constitute a clear violation of international humanitarian law”, he affirmed, expressing also Italy’s dismay about “the documented use of torture and ill-treatment, including sexual violence, against Ukrainian prisoners of war and civilian detainees” and calling on Russia “to release all unlawfully detained persons and safely return all illegally transferred or deported civilians, starting with children”.
The Ambassador also underlined that together with international partners, Italy “remains determined to continue to provide all necessary support to Ukraine and its people, including for its long-term recovery and reconstruction”.
In conclusion, he reiterated Italy’s “strong support to Ukraine’s independence, sovereignty and territorial integrity, with the ultimate goal of achieving a just, lasting and comprehensive peace in line with international law and the UN Charter and its principles”.
Read the full statement here.
