HRC :Interactive Dialogue on the High Commissioner for Human Rights’ Oral Update on the OHCHR Report’s Conclusions on the Human Rights Situation in Ukraine

 Geneva, 16 December 2025

Statement by Ambassador, Permanent Representative Mrs. Vasilika Hysi

Mr. President,

We thank the High Commissioner for his oral update on the human rights situation in Ukraine, and particularly on the extremely difficult situation in areas under Russian occupation.

Since the beginning of Russia’s aggression against Ukraine in February 2022, numerous international and independent reports have concluded that Russian forces have committed numerous war crimes and crimes against humanity, including indiscriminate bombing of schools, homes, healthcare facilities, water infrastructure, and energy systems, as well as systematic torture and sexual and gender-based violence.

The information provided today by the High Commissioner only confirms the barbarity of Russian forces against Ukrainian prisoners of war and civilians.

We are extremely concerned by these acts of torture and widespread cruelty and ill-treatment systematically perpetrated by law enforcement, security, and armed forces personnel, detention officers, and even medical staff. This indicates that torture is being carried out as part of a state policy coordinated by Russia. We strongly condemn these grave violations of international humanitarian law and human rights and remind Russia that torture is prohibited even in times of war.

Albania calls for the continuation of investigations and the documentation of these violations so that these crimes are not forgotten and those responsible are identified and held accountable. We owe the victims justice and reparations.

Finally, Albania reiterates its unwavering support for Ukraine and calls for an end to Russian aggression, which is causing so much suffering to the civilian population. It is time for a credible, just, and lasting peace. This peace must be based on security, justice, and respect for international law.

Thank you.