UN Rights Chief Warns of More Civilian Deaths in Ukraine

(MENAFN) Russia’s conflict in Ukraine has entered one of its most lethal stages since the initial months of the invasion in February 2022, the UN high commissioner for human rights stated on Monday.

Volker Turk informed the Human Rights Council that July recorded the highest monthly number of civilian deaths and injuries since May 2022, as Russian troops escalated missile and drone strikes across the country.

"Russia’s war in Ukraine has turned even more deadly ... Recent weeks have witnessed some of the most massive air strikes since the war began, with countrywide drone and missile saturation attacks resuming and intensifying," he said.

He emphasized that intentional attacks on power facilities and other non-military infrastructure "are grave violations of international law," noting that Ukrainian prisoners of war and arbitrarily detained civilians are subjected to consistent torture and mistreatment.

In areas under occupation, Russian officials are enforcing their own legal codes and curbing movement and free speech, Turk said, adding that his office continues to record abuses carried out by both parties.

“Negotiations to stop the fighting need to focus on immediate steps to protect civilians and safeguard the rights of people in occupied territory, as well as end torture and ill treatment,” Turk said.

He underlined that a sustainable peace can only be achieved through complete adherence to international law.

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