The UN High Commissioner for Human Rights, Volker Türk, reports a 30% increase in civilian casualties in Ukraine in early 2024, predominantly due to Russian military actions. Türk emphasized the violation of humanitarian law and highlighted discussions in Saudi Arabia regarding a potential ceasefire. However, the Kremlin’s conditions regarding sanctions complicate diplomatic resolutions.

The United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights, Volker Türk, reported a concerning escalation of civilian casualties in Ukraine during the first quarter of 2024, according to Radio Liberty. Notably, casualties have surged by 30% compared to the same timeframe last year, with his office confirming 413 civilian deaths and over 2,000 injuries since January. The data implies that the actual number of casualties may be even higher due to underreporting in conflict zones.

The majority of these deaths and injuries have resulted from actions taken by Russian military forces. The UN underscored that three years into the ongoing conflict, Russia continues employing explosive weapons within civilian populations, leading to devastating civilian losses. Türk indicated that 40% of civilian casualties this year are attributed to long-range Russian missile strikes, drone attacks, and glide bombs, which violate international humanitarian law.

Additionally, concerns were raised regarding fatalities in Russian-occupied regions. Recently, six individuals, including three journalists, were killed in a Ukrainian missile strike within the Luhansk Oblast. This incident comes amidst diplomatic discussions in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, involving representatives from the United States, Ukraine, and Russia. Ukraine has tentatively accepted a 30-day ceasefire, while Russia has stipulated specific conditions regarding these talks.

The Kremlin suggested that any agreement on the safety of navigation in the Black Sea would only be executed following the lifting of sanctions against Russia, a point not addressed in the U.S. statement. Meanwhile, the Russian Ministry of Defense has accused Ukrainian forces of targeting Russian energy infrastructure, a claim which the Ukrainian General Staff has refuted. Türk highlighted that while the ceasefire efforts aimed at protecting shipping routes signify progress, the paramount objective remains “stopping the terrible suffering inflicted on Ukraine daily.”

In summary, Volker Türk’s reports reflect a troubling rise in civilian casualties in Ukraine, predominantly stemming from Russian military actions. Diplomatic efforts in Riyadh indicate a potential ceasefire; however, significant hurdles remain, particularly regarding Russia’s conditions related to sanctions. The ongoing conflict continues to subject the Ukrainian populace to severe suffering, necessitating urgent international attention and action.

Original Source: euromaidanpress.com

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