Human Rights Watch: Ukrainian Authorities Must Observe International Law
The Ukrainian authorities should rethink their approach to military operations in the southeast and ensure that government forces are complying with all requirements of international law said a statement of the reputable human rights organization Human Rights Watch.

In recent weeks, military operations against the Ukrainian militia forces have intensified in populated areas, during which both sides used mortars, while government forces also implemented heavy artillery weapons.

“Ukrainian forces and the antigovernment insurgents both have obligations under international law to avoid harm to local residents,” said Hugh Williamson, Europe and Central Asia director at Human Rights Watch. “In practical terms, that means insurgents should avoid operating in populated residential areas. But if they do, both sides have to take all feasible precautions to minimize the risk of harm to civilians”.

IGCP expresses solidarity with colleagues from the Human Rights Watch.

“The situation in southeast Ukraine is escalating, the threats to lives of civilians increases every day. It is vitally important that Ukrainian authorities understand that regardless of the militias’ actions, government forces are obliged to abide by international law, particularly when it comes to the use of deadly weapons during military operations. Ukraine should do everything possible to minimize casualties and damage to the civilian population”, notes IGCP coordinator Alexander Dyukov.