New Democrats call for bolder action in response to russian war crimes

OTTAWA– Later this afternoon, NDP Foreign Affairs Critic, Heather McPherson, is asking for support from all Parliamentarians to condemn war crimes in Ukraine. McPherson is moving a Unanimous Consent Motion following the discovery of a mass grave containing the bodies of women and children in Bucha, Ukraine.

“The world is watching in horror as reports emerge from Ukraine about the discovery of a mass grave in the city of Bucha,” said McPherson. “300 bodies, many of them women and children, have been found further confirming that crimes against humanity and war crimes are being committed by the Russian federation. In addition to the unconscionable killing of civilians, reports are also emerging about sexual violence against women and children by the Russian military. These heinous acts demand action. Vladimir Putin and the Russian military must not be allowed to get away with this.”

McPherson’s motion calls on Parliament to support increased aid to Ukraine so that Ukrainians can defend themselves against these horrific events, accountability for these actions at the International Criminal Court, as well as increased punitive measures like stronger trade restrictions and economic sanctions.

New Democrats are also echoing calls made by the United States government for Russia to be removed as a member of the UN Human Rights Council.

“Women and children are being targeted, abused and murdered. Russia’s conduct toward innocent civilians cannot be tolerated by members of the international community,” said McPherson. “There has to be a strong, unified reaction to these war crimes and more must be done to stop Russia. I hope that all Parliamentarians will support my motion this afternoon and stand up for Ukrainians who are facing these deplorable human rights abuses.”