The article presents an appeal directed at the International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC), questioning the effectiveness of its silence in the face of Russian aggression and violations of international humanitarian law in Ukraine. The author argues that the ongoing conflict has obliterated the norms of humanity traditionally upheld during wartime, as aggressive policies and actions by Russia impose the 'law of the strongest' over the rule of law. This situation has prompted a significant debate about the role of humanitarian organizations like the ICRC in addressing gross violations of human rights and international law.

Traditionally, the ICRC has maintained a stance of neutrality, aiming to protect human dignity and address the needs of persons affected by conflict without engaging in political discourse. However, the author points out that this approach, which relies on confidential dialogue with conflicting parties to exert influence, is increasingly scrutinized as it appears ineffective in the current context of war where blatant violations are rampant. The piece calls into question whether the ICRC's methods are still appropriate or if they need reassessment in light of the atrocities occurring in Ukraine.

Furthermore, the appeal highlights the growing public frustration with organizations that seem passive in the face of humanitarian catastrophes. The author stresses the importance of organizations like the ICRC taking a more vocal and straightforward stance against violations of international humanitarian law to fulfill their mission, suggesting that silence may not be a principled position but rather a concerning disengagement from urgent human rights issues.