Written question asked by Lord Hylton (Crossbench) on Monday, 26 June 2023, in the House of Lords. It was due for an answer on Monday, 10 July 2023. It was answered by Lord Ahmad of Wimbledon (Conservative) on Monday, 10 July 2023 on behalf of the Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office.

Russia and Ukraine: Prisoners

Question: To ask His Majesty's Government whether they intend to call for the immediate release by Russia and Ukraine of all medical personnel being held captive.

Answer: The UK consistently calls for Russia to comply fully with International Humanitarian Law, and the need to respect and protect medical personnel in all circumstances. Humanitarian organisations must be given full, safe and unhindered access to populations in need of assistance. No one should be punished for or prevented from providing essential medical treatment. In our public communications and statements we draw attention to Russia's actions in Ukraine, including arbitrary detentions of civilians. In March, the UK led a joint statement on behalf of 40 countries, which called on Russia to release everyone detained in contravention of international law.

Secondary information