Ukraine Invites UN and ICRC to Russia’s Kursk Region, Reports Reuters

KYIV (Reuters) – Ukraine announced on Monday that it has reached out to the United Nations and the International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC) to assist in humanitarian efforts within Russia’s Kursk region, following a cross-border incursion by Ukrainian forces.

The Ukrainian army has maintained its presence in the Kursk area for over a month after the initiation of the operation, during which President Volodymyr Zelenskiy stated that Kyiv has gained control of approximately 100 settlements. Conversely, Russia’s Defence Ministry reported on Monday that its forces have regained control of two additional villages.

Ukrainian Foreign Minister Andrii Sybiha shared that he directed his ministry to extend an invitation to the UN and ICRC to operate in the Kursk region. The ministry confirmed that these requests were made.

“Ukraine is prepared to facilitate their efforts and demonstrate its commitment to international humanitarian law,” Sybiha posted on X after visiting the Sumy region, the launch point for the cross-border operation.

He emphasized that the Ukrainian military is working to provide humanitarian assistance and ensure safe passage for civilians in the Kursk area.

The Foreign Ministry indicated that the invitations were extended to the ICRC and UN considering the humanitarian situation and the necessity to safeguard basic human rights in the Kursk territory. Additionally, it requested the ICRC to oversee Ukraine’s adherence to international humanitarian law principles.

It remains unclear how the UN or ICRC has responded to the invitations.

Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov was quoted by Russia’s state-run TASS news agency, describing Ukraine’s statements as “provocative.” He suggested that Moscow anticipates the UN and ICRC will not accept the invitations.

A spokesperson for the Ukrainian Foreign Ministry remarked that the Kremlin’s response reflects a neglect for the humanitarian needs of its own citizens and a reluctance to allow international observers to assess the situation in Kursk.

Meanwhile, Russia’s state-run RIA news agency reported that ICRC President Mirjana Spoljaric is visiting Moscow and plans to meet with Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov.

In related developments, Ukrainian officials stated that Russian shelling last week killed three Ukrainians employed by the ICRC and injured two others in a village within the frontline Donetsk region. Spoljaric condemned these attacks.