During the meeting, the parties discussed current issues of cooperation between Ukraine and the ICRC, including the provision of humanitarian assistance in the regions of Ukraine most severely affected by Russia’s aggression.

Particular attention was paid to the Russian Federation’s systematic violations of international humanitarian law, including the inhumane treatment of Ukrainian prisoners of war and civilians, as well as its obstruction of ICRC access to Ukrainians whom it is unlawfully holding.

“I call on the International Committee of the Red Cross to use all available instruments to secure unhindered access to Ukrainian prisoners of war and civilians held by the Russian Federation,” Mariana Betsa stated.

The parties also discussed the humanitarian consequences of Russia’s massive missile and drone attacks against Ukraine’s civilian and critical infrastructure, as well as the growing number of Russian attacks on humanitarian operations conducted by the United Nations and the Ukrainian Red Cross Society, which constitute a gross violation of international humanitarian law.

In view of Russia’s systematic attacks against Ukraine’s energy infrastructure, Mariana Betsa called on the ICRC to prioritize the preparations for the 2026–2027 autumn and winter period while planning its humanitarian response.

For his part, Juan Pedro Schaerer provided an update on the ICRC’s activities in Ukraine and outlined the Committee’s key achievements and operational priorities.