Explaining complex things in simple words: attacks on Ukrainian children, ratification of Rome Statute

The Center for Strategic Communication and Information Security pursues efforts to provide a brief explanation to foreign audiences on the current topics of particular interest as regards Ukraine.     

ATTACKS ON UKRAINIAN CHILDREN

 Russia systematically strikes civilian infrastructure objects, in particular, children's institutions, with missiles, drones, and aerial bombs.

 Only recently, the Russians attacked a kindergarten in Mykolaiv (July 19), a children's cafe in Malokaterynivka, Zaporizhzhia region (August 20), a kindergarten in Zolota Balka, Kherson region (August 21).

 A 14-year-old boy was killed, and six children aged 11-17 were injured as a result of the Russian strike on Levada children's cafe in Malokaterynivka.

 Ukrainians will never forget and never forgive Russian murderers for the death and maiming of their children.

 Targeted attacks against civilians are a war crime.

 Russian war criminals will be identified by name and brought to justice.

ROME STATUTE RATIFICATION

On August 21, the Verkhovna Rada of Ukraine adopted a decision on the ratification of the Rome Statute of the International Criminal Court (ICC).

 The ICC is a permanent international court that investigates, prosecutes,and brings to justice persons accused of international crimes: aggression, genocide, crimes against humanity, and war crimes.

 Ukraine became the 125th member of the ISS. Since Ukraine signed the Rome Statute in 2000, we have come a long way, full of challenges, myths, and fears, none of which were true.

 Ratification of the Rome Statute is an obligation of Ukraine in the Association Agreement with the EU and a mandatory requirement for all EU member states. Therefore, this is an important stage on the path of European integration.

 Ukraine has long been effectively cooperating with the ICC to ensure comprehensive accountability for Russian atrocities committed during Russian aggression. The ICC has already issued six warrants for the arrest of Russian criminals, including Putin, Shoigu, and Gerasimov.

 Now we will have the opportunity to increase the effectiveness of the ICC in relation to crimes committed by Russian citizens on the territory of Ukraine. Opportunities for victims of Russian crimes to receive compensation from the ICC Trust Fund are also increasing.

Center for Strategic Communication and Information Security