Russia's Failure to Protect Ukraine Civilians Condemned by UN and Human Rights Defenders

The United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights, Volker Turk, has criticized Russia for its failure to protect civilians in Ukraine and accused Russian forces of committing war crimes. Turk stated that there have been gross violations of international human rights and humanitarian law, including summary executions, enforced disappearances, torture, and sexual violence. The World Health Organization (WHO) has recorded over 1,400 attacks on healthcare facilities in Ukraine since the Russian invasion, making it difficult to provide essential care. Russia has denied committing atrocities and accused the UN of "whitewashing" crimes committed by Ukrainian troops. The WHO and other partners are aiming to reach 3.8 million people in need of health aid in Ukraine next year.