EU condemns targeting by Russia of Ukraine’s civilian population and civilian infrastructure

The European Union has condemned in the strongest possible terms the continued targeting of Ukraine’s civilian population and civilian infrastructure by the Russian Armed Forces and their proxies, as well as their siege of the city of Mariupol.

According to a statement by EU High Representative Josep Borrell, “such deliberate attacks on civilians and civilian infrastructure are shameful, reprehensible and totally unacceptable. They constitute serious violations of international humanitarian law.”

The Mariupol Drama Theatre was heavily shelled on 16 March, despite having served as a well-known and clearly marked shelter for civilians including children. Also, Human Rights Watch reported that Russian forces attacked the city of Mykolaiv with cluster munition rockets in three separate attacks.

Borrell said that Russia must cease its military action and withdraw all forces and military equipment from the entire territory of Ukraine immediately and unconditionally and called on Russia to establish unhindered humanitarian access to Ukraine.

“The perpetrators of these serious violations and war crimes, as well as the responsible government officials and military leaders will be held accountable,” added Borrell.

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Press release