Matsuno: Russia's War Crimes In Ukraine Must Be Punished
Japan's top government spokesperson has strongly condemned alleged killings of Ukrainian civilians by Russian troops, saying war crimes by Russia must be punished.
Chief Cabinet Secretary Matsuno Hirokazu told media on Wednesday that the Japanese government is shocked by reports of the large number of civilian lives lost in Ukraine due to Russia's acts, and is taking the calamity extremely seriously.
Matsuno said killings of many innocent civilians are a serious violation of the international humanitarian law and are considered war crimes. He said the truth has to be completely uncovered.
He said Japan will closely work with the international community, including the other members of the Group of Seven nations, and carefully watch moves of the UN Security Council with strong concern.
He added that Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy's speech in the UN Security Council has made Japan once again recognize the need to reform the Council. He stressed that Japan will continue taking leadership in its reform.