International Condemnation of Russian Aggression in Ukraine

As we are writing this, there is war in Europe. We deplore the loss of life and humanitarian suffering as innocent civilians are being targeted and a mass exodus of women and children is underway into neighbouring countries from Ukraine, an independent and sovereign state and member of the United Nations. This is unacceptable in Europe, as it is anywhere in the World.

The facts are that Russia launched an unprovoked attack and invaded a peaceful neighbouring country, which posed no threat to it. This constitutes a clear violation of the Charter of the United Nations (UN), and presents a serious risk to global peace and security.

In these extreme times, the international community must work in solidarity and support and uphold the rules-based international order.

On the 25^th of February 2022, a UN Security Council (UNSC) Draft Resolution was presented, which was vetoed by Russia and with three members abstaining (China, India and UAE). Eleven voted in favour. This Draft Resolution aimed at reaffirming the commitment to the sovereignty, independence, unity and territorial integrity of Ukraine within its internationally recognized borders and would have deplored in the strongest terms Russia´s aggression against Ukraine. In addition, the Resolution called on Russia to immediately, completely and unconditionally withdraw all its military forces from the territory of Ukraine.

In light of Russia’s veto to the UNSC Draft Resolution, the UN General Assembly will now meet in an Emergency Special Session. At this Session, the UN General Assembly is expected to vote for a Resolution to stop Russia’s aggression.

As Heads of Mission to the Islamic Republic of Pakistan, we urge Pakistan to join us in condemning Russia’s actions and to voice support for upholding the UN Charter and the founding principles of international law.

As said by UN Secretary General, Antonio Guterres:

‘The UN Charter has been challenged in the past, but it has stood firm on the side of peace, security, development, justice, international law and human rights. The international community must do everything in its power so that these values prevail in Ukraine and for all humanity.’

Signed by:

The Ambassadors of the European Union Member States to Pakistan (Austria, Belgium, Bulgaria, Czech Republic, Denmark, France, Germany, Greece, Hungary, Italy, Portugal, Poland, Romania, Spain, Sweden & The Netherlands); and the Head of the Delegation of the European Union to Pakistan; and the Ambassadors of Japan, Norway & Switzerland to Pakistan, and the High Commissioners of Canada and the United Kingdom & the Chargé d´Affaires of Australia to Pakistan.

1^st of March 2022, Islamabad, Pakistan