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Ukraine's UN Envoy Hails Russian Army's Inclusion on Shame List
Ukraine's Permanent Representative to the UN, Andrii Melnyk, announced that the Russian army has been added to the UN's 'list of shame' for sexual violence. This decision was made public by UN Secretary-General António Guterres.
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Photo: Ukrinform EN
At a glance
- Russian army added to UN's 'list of shame' for sexual violence.
- Andrii Melnyk labeled this inclusion a historic victory for Ukraine.
- Increased international focus on war crimes committed by Russia.
- Russia now appears on two UN lists: for children's rights violations and sexual violence.
- UN report highlighted an increase in violations during Russia's aggression.
Why it matters
This inclusion serves as a significant step towards accountability for sexual violence in conflict. It strengthens Ukraine's diplomatic efforts to hold Russia accountable for its actions during the ongoing war.
https://www.ukrinform.net/rubric-polytics/4128696-melnyk-calls-inclusion-of-russian-army-on-un-list-of-shame-for-sexual-crimes-historic-event.html
What Happened
On May 30, 2026, Ukraine's Permanent Representative to the UN, Andrii Melnyk, expressed his views on a significant development regarding the Russian army. Secretary-General António Guterres has officially added the Russian military to the UN's 'list of shame,' which identifies armed forces that systematically commit sexual violence.
Melnyk described this inclusion as a historic event for Ukraine, stating, "Today is truly a historic day for Ukraine and Ukrainians on the path to holding Russia accountable for war crimes." He emphasized that this marks a substantial victory for Ukraine's diplomatic efforts on the international stage.
Key Details
The 'list of shame' compiled by the United Nations serves as a record of armed forces believed to systematically engage in crimes of sexual violence. With the Russian army now included, it joins another UN blacklist concerning the violation of children's rights in armed conflicts.
This dual inclusion highlights the grave accusations against Russian forces during the ongoing conflict in Ukraine. Guterres released an annual report on sexual violence in armed conflicts, citing a rise in gross violations against children amidst Russia's aggression.
According to the report, the Ukrainian representatives had communicated consistently with the UN's Special Representative on Sexual Violence in Conflict, Pramila Patten, about prevalent instances of sexual crimes committed by Russian forces against captured military personnel and civilians.
Why It Matters
The addition of the Russian army to the UN's 'list of shame' is significant for international accountability regarding war crimes. It emphasizes the need for rigorous scrutiny of actions taken by armed forces in conflict zones and offers Ukraine a stronger position in advocating for justice on a global scale.
Background
The UN's lists serve to draw global attention to the actions of armed forces involved in severe human rights violations. The 'list of shame' for sexual violence has been a tool to pressure governments and military leaders to account for their troops' actions.
In recent years, rising reports of war crimes, especially during conflicts such as the Russian invasion of Ukraine, have led to heightened international concern and calls for accountability. The inclusion of the Russian army marks an escalation in recognition of these crimes on a global platform.
Source: Ukrinform EN
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