(AFP)
In a video speech, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy called for an end to Russian “war crimes”.
His speech came after reports of dozens of bodies found in the streets and mass graves of the Ukrainian city of Bucha.
“The world has already seen many war crimes. At other times. On different continents. But it’s time to do everything to make the war crimes of the Russian military the last manifestation of such evil on earth,” Zelenskyy said.
Zelenskyy called on the Russian leadership to be held accountable for the actions of the nation’s military.
“I want all leaders of the Russian Federation to see their orders being carried out. Such commands. Such a fulfillment. And shared responsibility. For these murders, for these tortures, for these guns ripped off by explosions lying in the streets. For shots in the back of the head of tied people. This is how the Russian state is now perceived. This is your picture,” said Zelenskyy.
In his speech, Zelenskyi announced the establishment of a “judicial mechanism” to investigate crimes committed by Russian soldiers on Ukrainian territory. The mechanism is supported by the Foreign Ministry, the Attorney General’s Office, the National Police, the Security Service, the Secret Service and other government agencies, he said.
“This mechanism will help Ukraine and the world bring to justice those who unleashed or in any way participated in this terrible war against the Ukrainian people and crimes against our people,” he said.
Zelenskyi said he would provide more information on the state of Ukrainian territory occupied by Russian forces.
“All partners of Ukraine are informed in detail about what happened on the temporarily occupied territory of our state. War crimes in Bucha and other cities during Russian occupation will also be examined by the UN Security Council on Tuesday,” he said.
He also pointed out that efforts are being made to restore electricity and water in Bucha, as well as restore medical facilities and infrastructure.
Selenskyj again referred to the need for tougher sanctions against Russia.
“There will definitely be a new package of sanctions against Russia. But I’m sure that’s not enough. Further conclusions are required. Not only about Russia, but also about the political behavior that actually made it possible for this evil to come to our country,” he said.