Reps Lieu And Kinzinger Introduce Ukrainian Pow Resolution

Statement

Congressmen Ted W. Lieu (D-Los Angeles County) and Adam Kinzinger (R-IL) introduced a resolution expressing the House of Representatives' expectation of the Government of Russia, led by Vladimir Putin, to comply with the Geneva Conventions and their Additional Protocol. As Russia continues their malign campaign and senseless attacks on Ukraine, it is imperative that any Ukrainian soldiers and legitimate International Legion members captured are treated humanely as in accordance with the Geneva Conventions. The Governments of Ukraine and Russia are parties of the Geneva Conventions and additional protocols, which means the global community should be granted access to monitor the safety and wellness of any prisoners of wars.

"We have to hold Russia accountable for its aggression in Ukraine. An important part of that is ensuring that Russia adheres to the Geneva Conventions and the Law of Armed Conflict. We've seen numerous accounts of Russians targeting civilian areas and Russia's abuse of prisoners of war captured in Ukraine. These actions violate international law. I'm pleased to work with fellow veteran Rep. Kinzinger on this resolution to reaffirm Congress' support of Ukraine, and to demand that Russians treat POWs humanely during this conflict," said Rep. Lieu.

"I join my fellow Americans in firmly condemning the continued human rights abuses and blatant mistreatment of Prisoners of War (POWs) committed by Vladimir Putin and his regime. As signees of the Geneva Conventions, we expect members of the Legion to be treated in accordance with human rights and basic dignity. Up until this point, Russia--a signatory of this agreement--has failed to comply, despite international demand," said Rep. Kinzinger. "Today, I'm proud to introduce this resolution with my fellow Air Force veteran Congressman Ted Lieu calling on the Russian government to abide by the Geneva Conventions and ensure humane treatment of POWs."

The full text of the House Resolution can be found on Congressman Kinzinger's website here.

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