In a joint statement, the European Union and Ukraine called on Russia to immediately release all unlawfully detained civilians, including children. The document was published following discussions in Brussels on the situation in the occupied territories, where, according to the parties, systematic human rights violations, arbitrary detentions and deportations are taking place.
Briefly about the main points
- The EU and Ukraine have condemned Russia’s unlawful detention of civilians.
- The statement highlights the deportation and torture of Ukrainians.
- The parties are demanding the immediate return of all those being held, including children.
- The need for the ICRC to have access to places of detention has been emphasised.
Contents of the Joint Statement by the EU and Ukraine
A discussion on the situation regarding Ukrainian civilians unlawfully detained by Russia took place in Brussels on the sidelines of the EU Foreign Affairs Council. In a joint statement issued by the EU High Representative Kaya Kallas, the parties condemned Russia’s military aggression against Ukraine and its flagrant violations of international humanitarian law.
The statement emphasises that civilians, including officials, journalists, activists, volunteers and religious leaders, continue to be subjected to politically motivated persecution, torture and detention in inhumane conditions. Particular attention is drawn to the situation of children, who were victims of deportations and forced displacement.
Human rights violations and obstacles to independent monitoring
The statement highlights systematic arbitrary detentions, enforced disappearances, torture, sexual violence, unlawful deportation to Russia and forced displacement. It is noted that Russia is preventing independent observers, journalists and the public from accessing the occupied territories, which makes it difficult to document violations.
According to recent reports by the Office of the UN High Commissioner for Human Rights, such practices remain widespread, and the denial of the right to a fair trial and to contact with family members is a common practice in relation to detainees.
Demands on Russia and the role of international organisations
The EU and Ukraine have called on Russia and Belarus to immediately return all those being held unlawfully, deportees and forcibly displaced Ukrainian civilians, including children. The need for the safe and unconditional return of these people was emphasised.
Particular emphasis is placed on the importance of ensuring that the International Committee of the Red Cross has access to all places where prisoners of war and civilians are being held, and of facilitating the clarification of the fate of those missing in action, in accordance with the Geneva Conventions.
International pressure and the prospects for accountability
The statement emphasises that Russia systematically refuses to confirm the identity, whereabouts and fate of detained or missing Ukrainians, which constitutes a breach of international law. The EU and Ukraine call on all states to step up coordinated pressure on Russia to fulfil its obligations.
The parties reaffirmed their commitment to ensuring accountability for international crimes, in particular through the establishment of a special tribunal to deal with the crime of aggression against Ukraine and an international commission to examine claims.
Context and next steps
An informal discussion took place in Brussels, attended by the Ukrainian Minister for Foreign Affairs, ahead of the meeting of the EU Foreign Affairs Council Andrey Sibiga and representatives of human rights organisations. The meeting addressed the issue of the unlawful detention of civilians and ways in which the international community could respond.
The return of deported children and ensuring access to detainees remain priorities for Ukraine and its partners. It is likely that further steps will involve stepping up international pressure and supporting human rights initiatives.
