“The Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Ukraine summoned the head of the Mission of the International Committee of the Red Cross, Juan-Pedro Scherer, due to unacceptable statements in which the responsibility of Russia as an aggressor state was equated with Ukraine, which defends itself and its citizens. The meeting took place on January 20 at the behest of the Minister of Foreign Affairs Andrii Sybiga. The Ukrainian side expressed deep disappointment with the public statement of the regional director of the ICRC dated 14”, — write on: ua.news
The Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Ukraine summoned the head of the Mission of the International Committee of the Red Cross, Juan-Pedro Scherer, due to unacceptable statements in which the responsibility of Russia as an aggressor state was equated with Ukraine, which defends itself and its citizens.
The meeting took place on January 20 at the behest of the Minister of Foreign Affairs Andrii Sybiga. The Ukrainian side expressed deep disappointment with the January 14 public statement of the regional director of the ICRC.
The Ministry of Foreign Affairs emphasized that such formulations are unacceptable, because Ukraine acts exclusively within the limits of international law, striking only at legitimate military targets within the framework of the right to self-defense.
Ukraine expects a clearer position and correct public communication from the ICRC regarding the causes of humanitarian suffering. Separately, the Ukrainian side called on the Committee to intensify efforts for unimpeded access to prisoners of war and civilians illegally detained by Russia.
ICRC representatives recognized the inappropriateness of comparing the parties’ responsibilities and agreed to change communication approaches. Scherer assured that the organization’s team in Kyiv well understands the real humanitarian situation and the consequences of Russian attacks.
The parties agreed to strengthen dialogue and continue contacts, in particular through visits and additional consultations, so that the ICRC becomes more aware of the scale of the humanitarian crisis and works more actively on access to captured and detained civilians.
The International Committee of the Red Cross said recent attacks on critical infrastructure in Ukraine and Russia have left millions without electricity, water or heating amid sub-zero temperatures.
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