The occupation of Ukrainian territories by the Russian Federation requires a unified international response based on the norms of international law. The international community has a duty to take concrete and lawful steps to protect the civilian population and preserve Ukraine’s cultural identity. The UN General Assembly and Security Council must make it clear that this is not a matter of political disagreement, but a case of the Russian Federation’s gross violations of international law in the temporarily occupied territories of Ukraine, including breaches of the Geneva Conventions.
This was stated in a comment to Guildhall by German Member of the European Parliament Lukas Sieper.
«The Russian Federation’s occupation of Ukrainian territory requires a unified international response — rooted in international law, guided by empathy, and focused on accountability. These are not isolated violations but a systematic pattern of state-led actions against the core principles of international humanitarian and human rights law. Beyond statements of condemnation, the international community has a responsibility to implement concrete, lawful measures that protect civilians, preserve cultural identity, and uphold justice. The International Criminal Court’s mandate is to complete a thorough investigation into crimes under the Rome Statute, especially the forced displacement of civilians and the targeting of children — without delay», — the MEP pointed out..
«International monitoring is equally essential. We need joint efforts. UN agencies, human rights organizations, and independent media should assess and document the realities in the occupied territories. Transparency and facts matter. The UN General Assembly and Security Council must be clear: these are not political disputes — they are serious breaches of international law, including the Geneva Conventions. We must also support those who are fleeing. People escaping war and repression must have access to safe humanitarian corridors, legal protection, asylum procedures, and psychological care. A longer-term commitment is just as important: preserving the Ukrainian language, culture, and memory within refugee and diaspora communities through education, cultural programs, and resilient civil society networks, especially for the next generations. History has shown us that silence in the face of aggression does not bring peace — it provokes more violence. The international community must respond — with law, courage, and unwavering solidarity», — the German politician concluded.
Earlier, Member of the European Parliament Roberts Zīle (Conservatives and Reformists Group), representing Latvia, also called for an end to Russia’s human rights violations in the temporarily occupied territories of Ukraine. He believes that any acts of violence committed by Russia in these territories must be stopped immediately, especially when it concerns the protection and safety of the civilian population. The international community must thoroughly document all crimes committed in the occupied areas and establish a special tribunal to hold all perpetrators accountable.
Member of the European Parliament and former Commander of the Estonian Defence Forces, Lieutenant General Riho Terras, also urged the West to immediately put an end to violations of Ukrainians’ rights in the temporarily occupied territories. In his view, Putin’s sole aim is to destroy Ukrainian statehood, identity, culture, and the nation itself — and the West must act immediately to stop it. This can only be done by force. First and foremost, this means continuing to provide Ukraine with comprehensive support — both in terms of weaponry and financial aid — as well as tightening sanctions against Russia. In addition, Russia’s war crimes must be officially recognised, and all those responsible — from soldiers to generals — must be brought to justice.
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