US, Europe urge Russia to finish sexual violence in Ukraine

The US and Europe on Monday urged Russia to place an finish to sexual violence in Ukraine.

A professional-Russian service member within the Luhansk area, Ukraine, February 2022 (Photo: Reuters)

The United States and Europe urged Russia on Monday to cease alleged sexual violence by its military and proxies in Ukraine, allegations that Moscow denounced as “lies”.

The pleas had been made throughout a gathering of the UN Security Council, organized by Albania, which presently holds the rotating presidency.

“It is on Russia to stop rape, violence, and atrocities from within its ranks. It is on Russia to end this unconscionable, unprovoked war on the people of Ukraine, and we call on the Russian Federation to do just that,” mentioned US Ambassador Linda Thomas-Greenfield.

European Council President Charles Michel denounced “atrocities” by Russia.

“These crimes must be and will be punished. To hold accountable those who are responsible, we need evidence and we are now helping to collect the evidence of these crimes,” he mentioned.

He added that Moscow was “solely responsible” for a meals disaster sparked by Russia’s invasion of its neighbor.

The accusation led Russia’s ambassador to the UN, Vassily Nebenzia, to depart the chamber and get replaced with a deputy.

Nebenzia had earlier denied alleged sexual abuses dedicated by Russian forces in Ukraine.

“The accusations of sexual violence against the Russian army have become repetitive… but no proof has been provided,” he mentioned.

Pramila Patten, the UN’s Special Representative on Sexual Violence in Conflict, urged that sexual violence crimes are “ultimately reflected” in any peace settlement.

“This includes ensuring that amnesties for sexual violence crimes are explicitly prohibited,” she mentioned.