What's happened
The Duchess of Edinburgh, on a historic visit to Ukraine, condemned Russian forces for using rape as a weapon of war. She highlighted the disproportionate impact on women and girls in conflicts and called for prevention and support measures. The Duchess met with President Zelensky and survivors of sexual violence, aiming to address the humanitarian crisis caused by the war.
Why it matters
The Duchess of Edinburgh's visit and condemnation of the use of rape as a weapon of war in Ukraine sheds light on the devastating impact of conflict on women and girls. Her advocacy for prevention and support measures underscores the urgent need for action to address this issue globally.
What the papers say
The Independent and South China Morning Post both report on the Duchess of Edinburgh's condemnation of Russian forces' use of rape as a weapon of war in Ukraine. The Independent focuses on her statements during the visit, emphasizing the need to prevent and support victims of such crimes. In contrast, the South China Morning Post highlights her work as a champion of survivors of conflict-related sexual violence and her efforts to support those affected by the war.
How we got here
The Duchess of Edinburgh's visit to Ukraine comes amid the ongoing conflict between Russia and Ukraine, with Russian forces accused of committing war crimes, including the use of rape as a weapon of war. Her advocacy for survivors of conflict-related sexual violence aligns with her role in the UK's Preventing Sexual Violence in Conflict Initiative and the Women, Peace and Security agenda.
Common question
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What was the purpose of the Duchess of Edinburgh's visit to Ukraine?
The Duchess of Edinburgh, Sophie, recently visited Ukraine to meet with President Zelensky and survivors of sexual violence. Her visit aimed to champion survivors of conflict-related sexual violence and discuss support for women peacebuilders. Learn more about the purpose and impact of her visit below.
More on these topics
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Ukraine is a country in Eastern Europe. It is the second-largest European country after Russia, which borders it to the east and northeast.
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Sophie, Countess of Wessex, GCVO DStJ CD, is a member of the British royal family. She is married to Prince Edward, Earl of Wessex, the youngest son of Queen Elizabeth II and Prince Philip, Duke of Edinburgh.
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Russia, or the Russian Federation, is a transcontinental country located in Eastern Europe and Northern Asia. Covering an area of 17,125,200 square kilometres, it is the largest country in the world by area, spanning more than one-eighth of the Earth's in
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Edinburgh is the capital of Scotland and one of its 32 council areas. Historically part of the county of Midlothian, it is located in Lothian on the Firth of Forth's southern shore.