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 High Commissioner on Ukraine, in the framework of the 58th session of the Human Rights Council.
“Italy reaffirms its continued and unwavering support for Ukraine’s independence, sovereignty and territorial integrity. We are appalled by the documented grave violations of international human rights law and international humanitarian law committed by Russian authorities. We are also alarmed by the evidence of the devastating impact of Russia’s attacks on the civilian population and infrastructure”, stated the Permanent Representative.
He expressed Italy’s “deep concern about the fate of the large number of detained Ukrainian civilians and the forced transfer or unlawful deportation of children”, adding that in this context Italy ”welcomes the recent detainee exchange and support any further steps towards the release of civilians and the return of all Ukrainian children, as well as other civilians unlawfully deported”.
“Italy remains firmly committed to safeguarding human rights and ensuring full accountability for all international crimes and human rights violations and abuses stemming from the Russian war of aggression”, he stated further.
In conclusion Ambassador Grassi affirmed that “Italy stands committed and ready to contribute to a just, lasting and comprehensive peace for Ukraine based on the principles of the UN Charter and international law” and “welcomes all efforts towards achieving such a peace, including the proposals for a ceasefire, humanitarian initiatives and other confidence building measures”.
