Ambassador Holland refutes claims that the UK seeks to prolong
the war in Ukraine, emphasising the UK's commitment to a just and
lasting peace. Russia alone is responsible for continuing its
war.
"Thank you, Madam Chair.
I would like to address the suggestion that the UK is somehow
invested in prolonging the war against Ukraine. This assertion is
simply untrue, and I believe it is important to set the record
straight.
Let me be clear: the UK wants this war to end. This has been a
devastating three and a half years, marked by death and
destruction on a scale not witnessed in Europe since the Second
World War. After consistently calling for an end to this war in
this room every week, it should not be necessary to repeat this
message. Yet I will: the UK wants this war to end, and without
delay. However, I have also consistently stressed that the way in
which it ends is of critical importance to all of us. We do not
require a history lesson to understand why.
Ukraine's security is Europe's security. That is why the UK
continues to stand firmly with Ukraine, now and for the long
term. It is a commitment to defending international law. It is
support for the rights of a sovereign nation under attack. And it
is an insistence on a peace that is just and lasting, not just
convenient.
Last Friday, the Coalition of the Willing met in London. They
welcomed President Zelenskyy's support for a full, unconditional
ceasefire. In contrast, they noted that President Putin had
rejected such a ceasefire. The Coalition fully supported
President Trump's comments that the current line of contact must
serve as the starting point for any negotiations. They reiterated
their unwavering support for Ukraine's sovereignty and
territorial integrity, and for the fundamental principle that
borders must not be changed by force.
Madam Chair, President Zelensky has repeatedly made clear his
readiness for a ceasefire, and for serious peace negotiations. In
contrast, President Putin has chosen escalation by launching
attacks that have killed children, destroyed hospitals, and, more
recently, damaged vital civilian energy infrastructure,
inflicting suffering upon Ukraine as winter approaches.
There is one party actively seeking to prolong the war in
Ukraine. Russia started this conflict, and it holds the power to
end it.
Thank you."
