Attorney General Merrick B. Garland delivered remarks in honor of Ukrainian Constitution Day, emphasizing the United States' support for Ukraine amidst ongoing conflict with Russia.
"Thank you, Ambassador Markarova, for inviting me to join you today. Your tireless work on behalf of Ukraine is an inspiration to all of us. You are a champion for your country. And our country is grateful for your partnership," Garland stated.
Garland highlighted that tomorrow marks 28 years since Ukraine’s Constitution declared the nation sovereign and independent. This anniversary will be observed under the shadow of continued bombardment from Russia, marking the third Constitution Day during the war.
"In the face of unimaginable horrors at the hands of Russian forces, the people of Ukraine have demonstrated unimaginable courage," he said.
Garland praised the efforts of Ukraine's Office of the Prosecutor General in investigating and prosecuting war crimes committed by Russian forces. "They have sought to uncover the full truth of the crimes committed against the people of Ukraine," he noted.
He also mentioned that in December, the Justice Department filed historic charges against four Russia-affiliated military personnel for crimes against an American citizen in Ukraine. These were described as "the first-ever charges under the U.S. war crimes statute."
Further actions include unsealing an indictment against a Russian citizen accused of conspiring with Russian military intelligence to launch cyberattacks on Ukrainian government systems and targeting Ukraine's allies, including the United States.
"We are continuing to investigate war crimes that fall within our jurisdiction and to coordinate with our Ukrainian partners to support their investigations of Russian war crimes," Garland affirmed.
The Attorney General outlined ongoing efforts with international partners to ensure accountability for Russian war crimes and crimes against humanity. This includes freezing assets linked to Russia’s enablers and depriving its defense industry of critical technologies.
"We are using all of our legal tools to ensure that Russian perpetrators of aggression, war crimes, and crimes against humanity in Ukraine do not get away with them," he asserted.
Garland concluded by expressing solidarity with Ukraine: "The world has watched as the people of Ukraine have fought back against Russia’s aggression. Your resolve has changed history. Your courage has inspired us all."
"The United States is proud to stand with you today, and every day," he added before closing his remarks with "Slava Ukraini."