Today, Latvia commemorates the Ukrainian people who suffered in the brutal invasion of Bucha a year ago. In the wake of the withdrawal of Russian troops, the atrocities perpetrated by the Russian Armed Forces against peaceful civilian population in the town were revealed to the world. Remains of more than 400 local people bearing signs of violent death were found on the streets and in mass graves. Photographs from Bucha and testimonies from survivors never cease to shock us as to their horrifying cruelty and brutality.
International organisations have recognised on a number of occasions that many of the crimes committed by the Russian Armed Forces in Bucha should be classified as war crimes.
Russia’s actions are in a blatant violation of international law, including the United Nations Charter. Russia is fully responsible for its aggression against Ukraine. Those guilty of Russia’s aggression against Ukraine and inhumane crimes against Ukrainian civilians and military personnel will have to face a trial.
Latvia will continue supporting Ukraine’s efforts to create an international mechanism to investigate and prosecute Russia’s crimes in Ukraine. We support the establishment of an ad hoc international tribunal under the auspices of the United Nations, which would ensure accountability for the crime of aggression against Ukraine. Likewise, we also continue supporting the investigation by the International Criminal Court into international crimes in Ukraine and holding the perpetrators accountable.
The International Criminal Court has already taken a significant first step by issuing arrest warrants against the President of Russia, Vladimir Putin, and Russia’s Commissioner for Children’s Rights, Maria Lvova-Belova.