Italy to UN, 'shocked by Russian attacks in Ukraine'

(ANSA) - GINEVRA, 08 OTT - Italy "remains determined to continue to provide all necessary support to Ukraine and its people, including at the level of long-term recovery and reconstruction". This was stated today in Geneva by the Permanent Representative of Italy to the United Nations and other International Organisations in Geneva, Ambassador Vincenzo Grassi, speaking today as part of the Interactive Dialogue on Ukraine with the High Commissioner for Human Rights, in the framework of the 57th session of the Human Rights Council.
    "We are shocked by the proven devastating impact of Russian attacks against the civilian population and civilian infrastructure, including energy infrastructure, which constitute a clear violation of international humanitarian law," he said, also expressing Italy's dismay at "the documented use of torture and ill-treatment including sexual violence, against Ukrainian prisoners of war and civilian detainees" and urging Russia to "release all persons illegally detained and safely repatriate all civilians illegally transferred or deported, starting with children".
    "As repeatedly stressed by the members of the G7, Ukraine is defending its freedom, sovereignty, independence and territorial integrity against Russia's brutal and unjustifiable aggression, which must cease immediately and unconditionally," the Permanent Representative said, adding that Italy continues to "condemn in the strongest terms Russia's blatant violation of international law, including the United Nations Charter." In conclusion - a note from the Representation reported - the ambassador reiterated Italy's "strong support for Ukraine's independence, sovereignty and territorial integrity, with the ultimate goal of achieving a just, lasting and comprehensive peace, in line with international law, the UN Charter and its principles".