The Council of Europe has expelled Russia from the main continental body for human rights, in an unprecedented decision due to the invasion of Ukraine.

“The notice of withdrawal of the Russian Federation from the organization” was delivered on Tuesday to its secretary-general, Marija Pejcinovic Buric, according to a statement from the Russian Foreign Ministry.

Meanwhile, Amnesty International reported that before the session of the Council of Europe assembly, where Russia’s exit would be voted on, the Russian Foreign Ministry notified the council that it was withdrawing from the organization, citing article 7 of the Statute of the Council of Europe.

In addition, Russia informed the council of its intention to denounce the European Convention on Human Rights.

The ministerial committee of the organization made up of 47 countries said in a statement on Wednesday that “the Russian Federation ceases to be a member of the Council of Europe after 26 years of membership.”

Russia’s actions in Ukraine have drawn condemnation for weeks. Days ago, the group’s parliamentary assembly began the expulsion process and unanimously supported it.

In this regard, Amnesty International pointed out that Russia’s departure from this council occurs after the aggression against Ukraine, where possible war crimes and serious human rights violations have been committed.

According to the organization, Russia decided to leave the Council of Europe and the Human Rights body before the Assembly voted for its expulsion. This “is a tragedy for the victims of human rights abuses in the Kremlin,” she said in a statement.

“All stakeholders in Russia, including its legislators, must act to oppose this reckless decision and prevent the country from falling into an even deeper abyss characterized by a total disregard for human rights,” Amnesty said.