Russia has committed egregious war crimes in Mariupol and other cities across Ukraine. Russia’s siege has led to unspeakable suffering for innocent civilians. Attacks on a maternity hospital and theatre have killed over 300 civilians. The list of atrocities grows daily.

We are appalled by increasing reports of acts of sexual violence against women and girls by Russian forces in Ukraine. Deliberately targeting innocent civilians is a war crime. Australia condemns these acts in the strongest possible terms.

Russia’s invasion is directly contributing to global food insecurity and compounding the devastating impacts of COVID, conflict, and climate on fragile food systems.

We must hold Russia to account. That is why Australia strongly supports the work of the Commission of Inquiry on Ukraine. It is why the Council requested the High Commissioner to provide an update on Mariupol today. We welcome the ongoing work of the Office and its Ukraine monitoring mission.

We again call on Russia to cease its unprovoked, unjustified and illegal invasion of Ukraine, and immediately withdraw its forces from Ukrainian territory.

We reiterate Australia’s unwavering support for Ukraine’s sovereignty.