Brussels, 6 June 2023 (TDI): In a statement, the President of the European Commission, Ursula von der Leyen, condemned the war crimes committed by Russia in Ukraine and called for immediate accountability.
She declared that Russia must pay for its actions, which have resulted in widespread destruction and loss of life.
Highlighting an attack allegedly by Russia, von der Leyen emphasized the destruction of a dam, labeling it as an outrageous attack on civilian infrastructure. The consequences of this act put the lives of thousands of people in the Kherson region at risk, exacerbating an already dire humanitarian situation.
Russia will have to pay for the war crimes committed in Ukraine.
The destruction of the dam, an outrageous attack on civilian infrastructure, puts at risk thousands of people in the Kherson region.
Europe is mobilising support through our civil protection mechanism.
— Ursula von der Leyen (@vonderleyen) June 6, 2023
The European Union swiftly responded to the crisis by mobilizing support through its civil protection mechanism. President von der Leyen revealed that coordination with Member States was underway to ensure the rapid delivery of essential aid. The following items were identified as critical for assisting the affected region:
1. Dirt water pumps: These pumps would aid in removing excess water, preventing flooding and further damage.
2. Fire hoses: Essential for controlling and extinguishing fires that may have been caused by the destruction.
3. Mobile water purification stations: To provide clean and safe drinking water to the affected population.
4. Boats: Necessary for rescue and relief operations, ensuring the safety and well-being of those stranded or displaced by the crisis.
President von der Leyen stressed the EU’s unwavering support for Ukraine, stating that they would stand by the country for as long as necessary. The European Union, along with its Member States, is committed to providing the assistance required to alleviate the suffering caused by the ongoing conflict.
While the situation in Ukraine remains challenging, the EU’s collective response demonstrates a unified front against Russia’s aggression and the resolve to protect the rights and safety of innocent civilians caught in the crossfire. The international community is closely watching the developments, and pressure is mounting for Russia to be held accountable for its actions.
Nova Kakhovka dam in the Kherson region in Ukraine was destroyed on Tuesday. Ukraine blamed Russia for destroying it, and called it “ecocide”. However, Russia has denied committing any such act.