EU Intervention - UN General Assembly: 11th Emergency Special Session (Ukraine)

Mr President, Mr Secretary General, dear colleagues, 

Last week the UN Security Council was prevented from acting against Russia’s unprovoked and unjustified military aggression against Ukraine, because of one isolated vote, that of the Russian Federation.

Immediately after that, we initiated work to ensure that this body, where the countries of the world can all speak up, lives up to its responsibility. 

Over the past few days, the European Union has worked hand in hand with Ukraine and countries from all parts of the world, to prepare the resolution just adopted. We thank all countries that have supported it. The decision is clear. The world has spoken. 

The Russian government must immediately stop the aggression, withdraw its troops, and abide by the rules of the UN Charter that apply to all, equally. 

Over the past days, the brutality of Russia’s invasion, with the complicity of Belarusian authorities, has reached unimaginable levels – with indiscriminate attacks against Ukrainian cities causing death and destruction among civilians in complete disregard of international law. 

Distinguished colleagues and friends, this is not just about Ukraine. This is not just about Europe. This is about defending an international order based on rules we all have signed up to, and the sovereign equality of all states, large and small. This is about whether we choose tanks and missiles, or dialogue and diplomacy.

Today’s historic vote clearly shows Russia’s isolation from the rest of the international community. By voting overwhelmingly in favour of the resolution, we have chosen to defend peace where Russia has chosen brutal aggression. We have chosen to defend this organisation and its Charter where Russia has violated the fundamentals of both. Russia stands increasingly alone.

The European Union and the world stand with the Ukrainian people.

Thank you.