Statement delivered by Ambassador Trishala Persaud, Deputy Permanent Representative of Guyana to the United Nations, at Security Council Briefing on 'Maintenance of peace and security of Ukraine'

Thank you, Madam President,

I thank ASG Msuya for the important updates provided and welcome the participation of the Representatives of Ukraine, Lithuania, Poland, Romania Finland, the European Union and the Sovereign Order of Malta in today’s meeting.

Madam President,

We take positive note of the intensification of efforts to bring about a permanent and sustainable ceasefire in Ukraine and the announcement yesterday that an agreement has been reached on Black Sea navigation. Guyana has long emphasized the importance of dialogue and diplomacy in the international response to the  war in Ukraine and commends the architects of these and other peace initiatives for their foresight and dedication. 

Even as we celebrate the modest breakthroughs, we continue to be reminded of the urgent need to bring this war to an immediate and permanent end. The recent drone attacks against energy and civilian infrastructure and the rising death toll over the past few weeks serve as a stark reminder that the shadow of destruction continues to loom large, and can only serve to diminish the prospects for peace. 

This is a critical time where the slightest misstep could doom millions of Ukrainian and Russian citizens to even more bombardment and displacement; a time that we, the international community, must rise to the occasion and deliver on the promise of peace. 

With this in mind, and against the backdrop of widening humanitarian needs on the ground, Guyana calls upon the parties to engage in good faith in the ceasefire negotiations, uphold their obligations under international humanitarian law, and put the interests of their populations first. 

We also continue to underscore that lasting and sustainable peace cannot be achieved at the expense of international law. The parties, therefore, must commit themselves to achieving a lasting peace based on international law and with full respect for the sovereignty and territorial integrity of Ukraine. 

Madam President,

It has been said many times in this chamber that peace achieved through the use of force is not sustainable. Guyana supports those who work for peace, applying the tools of dialogue and diplomacy to bring about a peaceful and lasting settlement to this war. We call on all member states to support those efforts, including by implementing the relevant resolutions of the UN General Assembly and the Security Council.

I thank you.