The United Kingdom has highlighted alleged violations of international humanitarian law and international human rights law by Russia in Ukraine, according to a statement made at the Warsaw Human Dimension Conference. Deputy Ambassador James Ford referenced reports from OSCE/ODIHR, OSCE Moscow Mechanism expert missions, and the United Nations.
These reports document alleged arbitrary detention, enforced disappearance, torture, and ill-treatment of Ukrainian civilians and prisoners of war. They also detail the alleged unlawful transfer and deportation of Ukrainian children, efforts to alter their identity, and programmes of militarisation and indoctrination.
The UK noted an intensification of Russia's attacks on Ukrainian cities, with August seeing record numbers of jet-powered drone attacks and near-record ballistic missile strikes. Civilian casualties in the first eight months of 2026 reportedly increased by 55% compared to the same period last year, with July and August recording the highest monthly totals for 2026.
As winter approaches, Russia has reportedly signalled an intention to intensify large-scale strikes against Ukraine’s energy infrastructure. The UK reaffirmed its commitment to accountability, supporting efforts to document alleged violations and pursue justice through international and domestic mechanisms.