CONGRESSMAN MORELLE TAKES ACTION TO HOLD VLADIMIR PUTIN ACCOUNTABLE FOR WAR CRIMES

(Washington, D.C.) — Today, Congressman Joe Morelle voted in favor of legislation to investigate the war crimes committed by Vladimir Putin and Russian forces during their unlawful invasion of Ukraine and prevent future atrocities from occurring. This legislation represents the latest Congressional action designed to support the people of Ukraine and hold Putin accountable.

“Putin and the Russian military’s deliberate targeting of innocent Ukrainian civilians is an unconscionable and heinous violation of international humanitarian law. These horrific actions must be immediately investigated and prosecuted,” said Rep. Morelle. “Today’s actions are a critical step toward holding Russia accountable, securing justice for the people of Ukraine, and preventing further violations of human rights.”

The Ukraine Invasion War Crimes Deterrence and Accountability Act comes in direct response to the continued unlawful and unprovoked Russian aggression in Ukraine, including the murder of innocent civilians in Bucha, the deliberate shelling of civilian areas, and other egregious war crimes. Rep. Morelle presided over the passage of this legislation when it was considered before the House of Representatives.

Specifically, this legislation will:

• Allow the United States government to collect, analyze, and preserve evidence and information related to Putin’s war crimes;
• Direct the President of the United States to present a report of the U.S. government’s findings in this effort;
• Publicize efforts to identify and prosecute those responsible for committing war crimes in Ukraine as much as possible;
• Continue existing efforts to identify war crimes and other atrocities committed around the world through international cooperation and best practices.