Implementing international humanitarian law: prisoners of war, civilian detainees and foreign fighters, in the context of Russia’s war against Ukraine
Statement by H.E. Ambassador James Larsen, Permanent Representative of Australia
10 August 2026
Australia is grateful to Latvia and the United Kingdom for drawing the Security Council’s attention to this important matter. We are deeply disturbed by the briefers’ accounts of their experiences while held in detention by the Russian Federation.
Australia is appalled by credible reports of violations of international humanitarian law by the Russian Federation in relation to the treatment of Ukrainian prisoners of war and civilian detainees.
Allegations of the use of torture, sexual violence, enforced disappearance and summary executions are particularly concerning. Australia calls on the Russian Federation to ensure that prisoners of war are treated humanely in all circumstances, and in line with international law, including the Third Geneva Convention.
Allegations of serious violations of international law must be thoroughly investigated and those responsible held accountable.
Australia reiterates its call for the International Committee of the Red Cross to be afforded meaningful access, consistent with international humanitarian law, to prisoners of war and other persons deprived of their liberty in connection with the conflict.
Australia also supports ongoing international efforts to strengthen implementation of and respect for international humanitarian law. It is for that reason that we have co-chaired a workstream of the ICRC Global Initiative on international humanitarian law.
Australia sees value in exploring how the future work of the Initiative could contribute to strengthening protections for prisoners of war and civilian detainees.
We will continue to call for the Russian Federation to be held to account for these reported violations.
We stand firmly with Ukraine and call on Russia to end this senseless war. Thank you.