U.N. Screening of Documentary on Russia’s Siege of Mariupol, Ukraine Hosted by U.S. and U.K.

The United States and Britain have organized a screening of the documentary “20 Days in Mariupol” at the United Nations headquarters. The documentary, produced by the Associated Press and the PBS series “Frontline,” follows a group of journalists during Russia’s siege of the Ukrainian port city. The screening, which coincides with the start of the U.N. General Assembly, aims to highlight the importance of upholding international order and the territorial integrity of all countries.

UK Ambassador Barbara Woodward stressed the significance of the screening, stating that Russia’s invasion of Ukraine poses a threat to the principles upheld by the U.N. The harrowing documentary captures the relentless fighting, the impact on Mariupol’s residents, and the tragic deaths of innocent civilians, including pregnant women and children. The siege, which lasted for 20 days, resulted in thousands of fatalities and extensive destruction in the city.

U.S. Ambassador Linda Thomas-Greenfield emphasized the need to bear witness to these atrocities and reaffirm a commitment to justice and peace in Ukraine. The AP’s reporting from Mariupol drew criticism from the Kremlin, with Russia’s U.N. ambassador claiming that some of the images were staged.

The documentary, which won several awards, including the Sundance Global Audience Award for Best Documentary, has been recognized for its impactful journalism. Director Mstyslav Chernov was awarded the Pulitzer Prize for Public Service, along with photographer Evgeniy Maloletka, producer Vasilisa Stepanenko, and correspondent Lori Hinnant for their courageous reporting.

Raney Aronson-Rath, the editor-in-chief and executive producer of “Frontline,” expressed gratitude for the opportunity to screen the documentary at the United Nations. The producers continue to share the film worldwide as a means of shedding light on the atrocities endured by the people of Ukraine.