UN warns of ongoing illegal weapons transfers to Ukraine and Russia

On 13 September 2024, UN disarmament officials called all the parties in the Ukraine-Russia conflict to respect international law by stopping the continued arms transfers to both sides. 

Izumi Nakamitsu, the High Representative for Disarmament Affairs, reported to the Security Council that the military aid, including heavy weapons sent to Ukraine, violates  the UN Charter. She also highlighted reports of weapons being transferred to Russia, stressing the need for states to comply with arms treaties and protect civilians, as the use of indiscriminate weapons such as cluster munitions and mines endangers lives.

Civilian casualties continue to rise in Ukraine, with over 11,700 killed since the start of Russia's invasion in February 2022. August 2024 saw a high number of civilian casualties. Uncrewed aerial vehicles and missiles are being used in ways that violate international humanitarian law. Both Russia and Ukraine have been accused of cross-border strikes, further contributing to civilian suffering.

Russian Ambassador Vassily Nebenzia accused Ukraine of using chemical weapons and warned that lifting restrictions on arms transfers could lead to direct NATO involvement in the war. Meanwhile, the U.S. revealed that Iran supplied Russia with new ballistic missiles, increasing its capacity to target Ukrainian infrastructure ahead of winter.

In the meantime, the UK Prime Minister and US President are addressing Ukraine’s request for long-range missiles. 

In parallel, International Criminal Court Prosecutor Karim Khan emphasized the importance of justice in confronting aggression, applauding Ukraine’s decision to sign the Rome Statute amidst the conflict. Khan warned those committing war crimes that they would be held accountable, underscoring the ICC's commitment to prosecuting violations of international law.