UN Includes Russia in 'List of Shame' for Sexual Violence During War for the First Time — Ukraine MFA Reaction

The Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Ukraine welcomed the publication of the annual report of the UN Secretary-General on conflict-related sexual violence and the first-time inclusion of the Armed Forces and security forces of the Russian Federation and affiliated groups in the list of parties reasonably suspected of systematic acts of such violence. This is the so-called "list of shame."

The MFA emphasized that this is an important step towards establishing the truth, restoring justice, and ensuring accountability for crimes committed by Russia during its aggression against Ukraine.

According to the ministry, thousands of Ukrainians — women, men, and children — have suffered sexual violence by Russian military and occupation forces during the Russian aggression. Particular concern is raised by the situation of prisoners of war and detained civilians, many of whom testify after release about sexual violence, torture, humiliation, and other forms of inhumane treatment in Russian captivity.

The MFA stressed that the Russian Federation uses sexual violence as a tool of war, terror, and intimidation, as well as a means to destroy human dignity. The Ukrainian side expressed gratitude to UN structures for recognizing these facts.

It is also noted that Russia now appears on the lists of violators under two key UN Security Council mandates — on children and armed conflict and on conflict-related sexual violence. This, the MFA points out, is further confirmation of the criminal nature of the Russian regime and the systemic character of its actions.

At the same time, the ministry believes the situation should not be limited to inclusion in reports and lists and stresses the need to move to practical steps to hold Russia and its representatives accountable. In particular, this concerns preventing Russian military personnel involved in violations of international humanitarian law and human rights from participating in UN peacekeeping operations.

The MFA emphasizes that the facts presented in the UN Secretary-General's report will serve as a basis for further international actions to hold Russia and the perpetrators accountable. Full responsibility for conflict-related sexual violence is considered part of the overall responsibility for aggression.

Ukraine will also continue to strengthen national mechanisms for responding to such crimes. It is noted that the state has ratified the Rome Statute, ensures access for international monitoring missions, and improves support systems for victims, including legislation on victims' rights and interim reparations.

Separately, the MFA noted cooperation with the UN Secretary-General's Special Representative on Sexual Violence in Conflict, Pramila Patten, and her team, as well as with the UN Group of Experts on Rule of Law and Sexual Violence. The ministry stressed that Russia's inclusion in the "list of shame" was made possible thanks to the work of Ukrainian diplomats, law enforcement agencies, the government commissioner for gender policy, and civil society representatives.

Ukraine declares it will continue cooperating with international partners to overcome the consequences of sexual violence, support victims, and hold the Russian Federation and all perpetrators accountable.

Subscribe to our Telegram channel t.me/sudua and to Google News SUD.UA, as well as to our VIBER and WhatsApp, and follow us on Facebook and Instagram to stay updated on the most important events.