Russia’s actions and false accusations won’t deter our steadfast dedication to Ukraine: UK assertion to the OSCE

Thank you, Madam Chair.  Russia’s unprovoked, premeditated and barbaric assault towards Ukraine continues.  In breach of the UN Charter and worldwide legislation.  And in contravention of each precept of the Helsinki Final Act.

Each week now we have condemned Russia’s intensifying missile and drone strikes, which have triggered additional civilian casualties and destruction of crucial infrastructure.  Attacks which triggered vital harm to the Ukrainian Cabinet of Ministers, in addition to the British Council and EU delegation buildings. Repeated assaults on residential flats and houses as youngsters sleep of their beds.  Attacks which aren’t solely unlawful and escalatory, however that are inhumane.

Russia claims to need peace in Ukraine. Yet its escalating assaults stay inconsistent with its phrases. And its actions stay inconsistent with its dedication below the Helsinki Final Act’s fifth precept on the “Peaceful settlement of disputes”.  We completely assist President Trump and President Zelenskyy’s efforts to safe a simply and lasting peace.  Yet just one celebration to the battle – Ukraine – has proven it’s the celebration of peace. Meanwhile, Russia continues to be the blocker, terrorise Ukraine and its folks, and act irresponsibly.

Last week, Russia claimed to be at de facto struggle with NATO, for our assist to Ukraine.  Yet if you happen to take a look at the proof, NATO is standing by its defensive posture whereas Russia is performing provocatively and dangerously. Let me repeat.  NATO is a defensive alliance. Its function is to guard.

At the identical time, Ukraine’s safety is our safety. And lest anybody overlook – Russia is the aggressor right here; Ukraine the harmless sufferer.  That is why we assist Ukraine.  As Russia stalls and delays on severe peace talks while intensifying assaults towards Ukraine and enjoying quick and unfastened with European safety, we won’t stand idly by.  We will proceed to step up our assist to Ukraine to make sure that it has the instruments it must defend itself and stays resilient.

Russia’s actions and false accusations won’t deter or distract us from our steadfast dedication to Ukraine. This is according to the UN Charter, the Helsinki Final Act and the Code of Conduct. Once once more, we urge Russia to finish its unlawful struggle and return to full compliance with its worldwide commitments.