‘Close to genocide!’ Boris Johnson savages Putin’s barbarism after horrific attack
Boris Johnson addresses 'ruthlessness' of Russian propaganda
We use your sign-up to provide content in ways you’ve consented to and to improve our understanding of you. This may include adverts from us and 3rd parties based on our understanding. You can unsubscribe at any time. More info
The Prime Minister was speaking after images emerged of mass graves in the town of Bucha outside of Kiyv and reports of rape and torture being used by Russians as weapons of war. Russian forces retreated from the town over the weekend to refocus their attacks in other parts of the country.
When Ukrainian troops re-entered the town they found dead civilians left strewn across streets and evidence of apparent executions.
The developments have been met with horror around the world, with Western allies vowing to introduce more sanctions against Russia as punishment.
Reacting with outrage today, Mr Johnson said: “I’m afraid when you look at what’s happening in Bucha, the revelations that we are seeing from what Putin has done in Ukraine doesn’t look far short of genocide to me.”
He added: “It is no wonder people are responding in the way that they are.
“I have no doubt that the international community, Britain very much in the front rank, will be moving again in lockstep to impose more sanctions and more penalties on Vladimir Putin’s regime.”
His remarks are the strongest condemnation of Moscow issued by the UK so far.
Britain has a long-standing policy of not referring to acts as “genocide” unless it is prescribed by an international court of law.
But Mr Johnson showed little restrain if regards to the stance today as he lashed out at Vladimir Putin.
Last night the Prime Minister also made a direct appeal to the Russian people to find out the truth about the atrocities committed in Ukraine.
He said the actions of Putin on the ground were “sickening” and “a stain on the honour of Russia”.
In a video released on social media with Russian subtitles, he said: “Civilians massacred – shot dead with their hands tied; women raped in front of their young children, bodies crudely burned, dumped in mass graves, or just left lying in the street.
“The reports are so shocking, so sickening, it’s no wonder your government is seeking to hide them from you.
“Your president knows that if you could see what was happening, you would not support his war.”
More to follow…
Source: Read Full Article
