MEP Caspary: The world must stop Russia’s crimes against Ukrainians in the TOT

The actions of the Russian Federation in the temporarily occupied territories of Ukraine — including the forced assimilation of the Ukrainian population, the deliberate assault on cultural identity, and the violation of the right to self-determination — must be brought to an immediate halt. The international community must act in a united and resolute manner. Maintaining pressure on Russia remains a key step — through targeted sanctions, diplomatic isolation, and a unified stance from the entire international community. It is also essential to ensure access for independent international observers — for example, under a UN mandate — to the temporarily occupied regions of Ukraine.

This was stated in a comment to Guildhall by Member of the European Parliament Daniel Caspary (Christian Democrats), a representative of Germany.

«The actions of the Russian Federation in the temporarily occupied territories of Ukraine are deeply alarming and completely unacceptable. The forced assimilation of the Ukrainian population and the systematic displacement are nothing less than a targeted attack on cultural identity, the right to self-determination, and ultimately the lives of the people on the ground. Russia’s actions must be stopped immediately. From the perspective of the EPP Group, it is clear: fundamental principles are being violated here – human dignity, cultural diversity, and a sense of belonging. When people are forced to either accept a Russian passport or leave their homes, it is a prime example of state-organized oppression. The aim is obviously to erase Ukrainian identity – in effect, this amounts to ethnic cleansing. The European People’s Party stands firmly with Ukraine and all those suffering under this oppression. Our solidarity is with those who are standing up for freedom, cultural diversity, and the right to lead a self-determined life. We expect Russia to end these practices and to respect its international obligations. Europe must not remain silent when core values are being trampled. The protection of human dignity and freedom is indivisible – especially in the occupied territories of Ukraine», — the MEP noted.

«In light of the massive human rights violations in the occupied territories, it is essential that the international community acts in a unified, clear, and resolute manner. What is needed now is not just words of warning, but concrete action – politically, in humanitarian terms, and in foreign policy. A key step is to maintain pressure on Russia – through targeted sanctions, diplomatic isolation, and a clear and united stance. At the same time, independent international observers, for example under the mandate of the United Nations, must be granted access to the affected regions to document the suffering of the people and make the facts visible. Aid organizations must be able to work safely and without obstruction. Anyone who blocks access to medical assistance or humanitarian relief is violating the basic rules of international coexistence», — the politician stated.

«Political clarity is also essential: There must be no recognition of Russia forcing citizenship on people in the occupied territories, staging fake votes to simulate consent to occupation, or attempting to annex entire regions through force and deception. Such methods violate the fundamental principles of the international order – and they must have no place in Europe. With Germany and Friedrich Merz at the helm of a values-based government, Europe is sending a strong signal: the free world stands with Ukraine. Chancellor Merz has made it clear that looking the other way is not an option. His decision to lift previous restrictions on German arms deliveries, along with his support for Ukraine in developing its own defense capabilities, demonstrates clear leadership and responsibility. Germany is once again taking on an active role in Europe – not as a passive observer, but as a reliable partner in matters of freedom and security. Ultimately, this is not just about borders on a map. It is about people – their dignity, their freedom, their culture. These values are the foundation of our European community – and they deserve to be defended with courage and determination», — the German MEP concluded.

Earlier, Member of the European Parliament Roberts Zīle (Conservatives and Reformists Group), a representative of Latvia, also stated that Russia’s human rights violations in the temporarily occupied territories of Ukraine must be stopped. In his view, any acts of violence committed by Russia in the temporarily occupied territories of Ukraine must be halted immediately, especially when it comes to the protection and safety of the civilian population. The international community must thoroughly document all crimes committed in the occupied territories and establish a special tribunal to bring all perpetrators to justice.

Member of the Estonian Parliament Meelis Kiili also called for an end to the genocide of Ukrainians in the territories occupied by the Russian Federation. The international community must do everything in its power to immediately stop the genocide of Ukrainians in the territories temporarily occupied by Russia. To stop the Russian Federation, all available instruments of influence must be employed — diplomatic, informational, military, and economic. This includes active diplomacy, spreading the truth about the war through the media, increasing military support for Ukraine, and applying economic pressure on Russia.