In a stark denunciation of Russia's ongoing actions in Ukraine, Jake Sullivan, President Biden's National Security Advisor, has called attention to the forced deportation of hundreds of thousands of Ukrainian civilians to Russia. Among those deported are children, many of whom have been forcibly separated from their families.
Disturbing New Reports
Sullivan highlighted credible reports indicating that Russian authorities are listing abducted Ukrainian children on Russian adoption websites. "This is despicable and appalling," he stated. "These Ukrainian children belong with their families inside Ukraine." The revelation underscores the severe human rights violations occurring amidst the conflict.
A War Against the Ukrainian People
The forced deportations and abductions reflect a broader strategy employed by Russia that targets not just the Ukrainian military but the Ukrainian populace itself. Sullivan emphasized this point, asserting, "Russia is waging a war not just against the Ukrainian military – but against the Ukrainian people." This statement captures the gravity of the situation, where civilians are caught in the crossfire of a brutal and unrelenting aggression.
Sullivan reiterated the President's stance on the matter, reaffirming that "Russia is committing war crimes and crimes against humanity in Ukraine." This strong condemnation aligns with the international community's growing concern over Russia's violations of international law and human rights.
A Commitment to Support
In his remarks, Sullivan also reassured that the United States would continue to stand firmly with the Ukrainian people. "We will continue to stand with the Ukrainian people as we help them defend against Russia’s barbaric war of aggression," he declared. This commitment underscores the ongoing support from the U.S. and its allies as Ukraine navigates through this tumultuous period.
The statement by Jake Sullivan serves as a call to action for the global community to recognize and respond to the egregious actions being carried out by Russian forces. The plight of the abducted Ukrainian children and their families demands immediate attention and a concerted effort to ensure their safe return and the restoration of their rights.
