UK Military Advisor, Lt Col Joby Rimmer, says that Russia's
invasion shatters European security and undermines peace. Despite
President Putin's claims, continued attacks show absolutely no
intent to negotiate. The UK urges an immediate, lasting ceasefire
to enable real dialogue and end the humanitarian crisis.
"Thank you, Madam Chair. The United Kingdom remains resolute in
its commitment to supporting Ukraine in the face of Russia's
ongoing illegal invasion. Our immediate priority is to secure a
ceasefire as swiftly as possible - one that endures long enough
to create the conditions necessary for meaningful negotiations
toward a robust and lasting peace.
President Putin claims that he is interested in peace, all the
while Russian attacks increasingly escalate the humanitarian
crisis. These are not the actions of a government seeking
peaceful resolution, but of one determined to prolong suffering
and instability. Over the weekend, Russia launched a massive
aerial assault involving 69 missiles and 298 drones, targeting
over 30 cities and towns across Ukraine. At least 12 civilians,
including children, were killed, and dozens more were injured.
Kyiv was among the hardest hit, suffering casualties and
significant damage during its Kyiv Day celebrations. A symbolic,
cynical and deliberate act of aggression.
At last week's Forum for Security Co-operation (FSC), Russia
accused NATO of ‘pumping up military budgets and militarising at
the expense of ordinary taxpayers.' As it continues to escalate
the conflict, the economic toll on Russia's own population is
becoming increasingly severe: Interest rates in Russia have
surged to 21%, reflecting deep financial instability; 40% of
Russia's federal government spending in 2025 has been committed
to defence; for the first time in post-Soviet history, defence
spending has exceeded social spending; Russia has depleted
two-thirds of the liquid assets in its National Wealth Fund; and
due to international sanctions, Russia has lost an estimated $450
billion USD in energy revenues. These figures reveal a government
that clearly prioritises war over the welfare of its own
citizens. The Kremlin's choices are impoverishing Russia. We
stand ready to ratchet up the pressure on President Putin with
new sanctions if our calls for a ceasefire are not answered now.
The UK stands by its economic and military support to Ukraine - a
sovereign nation defending itself against an unprovoked attack.
We would remind Russia, that alongside the billions already
committed in aid and military assistance, the UK is also
investing in Ukraine's long-term recovery and reconstruction
through non-military support. It is estimated that Ukraine's
recovery and reconstruction will require $524 billion USD over
the next decade. It represents the cost of rebuilding homes,
schools, hospitals, and infrastructure destroyed by Russian
aggression. It is a moral and strategic investment in the future
of a free and democratic Ukraine.
The United Kingdom condemns Russia's illegal invasion in the
strongest possible terms. We will continue to stand with Ukraine
- militarily, economically, and diplomatically -until peace is
achieved, and Ukraine's sovereignty is safeguarded. Russia's
invasion is a flagrant violation of international law, of the
United Nations Charter and the principles enshrined in the 1975
Helsinki Final Act, to which Russia is a signatory. These
principles include the sovereign equality of states, the
inviolability of frontiers, and the prohibition of the threat or
use of force. Russia's actions have shattered the foundations of
European security. Thank you, Madam Chair."
