"The United Nations has called for the increasing reports of rape and sexual violence against Ukrainian women and children during the Russian invasion of the country to be independently investigated.
Sima Bahous, executive director of UN Women, a United Nations entity dedicated to advancing gender equity and the empowerment of women, called for a 'gender-sensitive' humanitarian response during an address at the UN Security Council (UNSC) in New York City on Monday morning.
'The combination of mass displacement with the large presence of conscripts and mercenaries, and the brutality displayed against Ukrainian civilians, has raised all red flags,' said Bahous.
Allegations of rape and sexual violence 'must be independently investigated to ensure justice and accountability,' Bahous said.
There is also an increased risk of human trafficking at border crossings, with young women and unaccompanied teenagers at particular risk, she added.
Reports of sexual violence and other war crimes by Russian troops have been emerging from areas retaken by Ukrainian forces, including Bucha, a suburb of the capital city Kyiv."
