Ukraine’s Head of the President’s Office Kyrylo Budanov called on Russia to observe the rules of war and refrain from attacks on political decision-making centers as well as civilians and civilian infrastructure.
Even amid the brutality of war, both sides must follow basic rules and avoid striking places where political decisions are made, including locations where national leaders might be present, and refrain from hitting civilian objects, Budanov said in an interview with RBC-Ukraine.
“It doesn’t matter whether we’re talking about Kyiv or Valdai (the location of Russian President Vladimir Putin’s residence),” he said, stressing that attacks on decision-making centers are unacceptable.
Budanov also called strikes on civilian infrastructure unacceptable. Among sites that should not be targeted, he listed hospitals, maternity wards, historical and cultural buildings, and any places where civilians are present.
He underscored the moral dimension, saying he cannot comprehend the use of weapons against people who are physically unable to resist. He cited children and the elderly as examples, noting that attacks on such groups mean a loss of human dignity.
According to Budanov, adherence to these rules is especially important amid complex peace talks. By following these principles, it is possible to achieve a “long-awaited sustainable peace,” he added.
