Deputy Ambassador James Ford highlights Ukraine's constructive
approach, condemns Russia's ongoing aggression, and affirms the
UK's commitment to defending international law and supporting
Ukraine's sovereignty. Peace in Ukraine must be built on
foundations that reinforce the rules safeguarding European
security.
"Thank you, Chair.
The UK fully supports efforts to secure peace in Ukraine. We
welcome the progress that has been made and agree with the joint
statement from Ukraine and the US that “real progress toward any
agreement depends on Russia's readiness to show serious
commitment to long-term peace”.
Ukraine has demonstrated time and again its constructive and
realistic approach to peace, including the intensive discussions
that have taken place over the past couple of weeks.
Ultimately it is for the Ukrainian people and leadership to
determine the terms that are acceptable to them. The UK will
continue to stand by Ukraine, both because it is the right thing
to do and because the outcome matters to us all.
Russia's war against Ukraine is an assault not only on a
sovereign state but also on the principles that underpin European
security. Without provocation, Russia violated every single
Helsinki principle: respect for sovereignty, territorial
integrity, refraining from the threat or use of force.
But it is in all of our interests that these principles endure -
because they are the guardrails that prevent the next conflict.
History shows us that the way wars end shapes the peace that
follows. Our task is to ensure that, in Ukraine, peace is built
on foundations that strengthen - not weaken - the rules that
protect us all.
Standing up for Ukraine is standing up for our own security. If
borders can be redrawn by force, none of us can rely on the rules
that keep us safe. We don't call for a just and lasting
peace in Ukraine because we are idealists or of course for any of
the cynical reasons that the Kremlin's disinformation would have
some believe. It is required because it is right and
because legitimising this illegal invasion would erode the
foundations of peace in Europe for generations to come.
Our message must be clear: International law matters. The UN
Charter matters. The Helsinki Final Act matters. These are not
abstract words; they are the framework that keeps Europe secure.
If we fail to defend them, we will pay a far higher price later.
Thank you."
