Statement by the Permanent Representative of Greece, Ambassador P. Stournaras, during the interactive dialogue with the High Commissioner on her oral report on Ukraine (30.3.2022)

"Greece aligns with the EU statement and thanks the High Commissioner for her update.

The war in Ukraine rages on and the toll of civilian casualties keeps rising. The Russian forces are directing attacks against the civilian population, targeting civilian infrastructure, such as hospitals, medical facilities, schools and shelters. They are resorting to siege tactics and forced deportation, while failing to provide humanitarian corridors. Even nuclear plants are threatened.

More than ten million people have been forced to flee their homes. Those staying behind, live in shelters, lacking food, water and basic goods and services to survive the harsh winter. In Mariupol, a centuries old Greek community, one hundred and fifty thousand strong, suffers under Russian siege. Its members are forced to abandon lands they have called home from time immemorial.

Mr President,

Greece stands by Ukraine and its people. We condemn in the strongest possible terms the military aggression by the Russian Federation. It constitutes a gross violation of international law, including the UN Charter, IHL and international human rights law. We call upon Russia to abide by its obligations.

Madam High Commissioner,

What more can be done to ensure effective accountability?

I thank you"