Statement delivered by Ambassador Trishala Persaud, Deputy Permanent Representative of Guyana to the United Nations, at Russian Federation Arria-Formula Meeting on “Crimes of the Ukrainian Armed Forces and the nationalist battalions”

Thank you, Chair.

Guyana takes careful note of the remarks delivered by the briefers.

Guyana has maintained a steadfast commitment to upholding and supporting an international order guided by the principles of the UN Charter and international law. We firmly believe in accountability for illegal actions of all parties engaged in conflict and emphasize that impunity for violations of international humanitarian law must never be tolerated.

Further, we stress that history cannot be rewritten through war. International law must be the recourse of those who seek redress for any real or perceived wrongs and it is the solemn obligation of every Member State of the United Nations to uphold the organization’s principles.

The war in Ukraine, without a doubt, has gone on for far too long, and while we are understandably frustrated by the lack of progress towards a sustainable solution, we must remain committed to the pursuit of a just and lasting peace. This war must end.

Guyana reiterates our condemnation of the use of violence against civilians by all parties and the use of explosive weapons in populated areas. We call upon all parties to uphold their obligations under international law, including respect for territorial integrity.

We feel compelled to take this opportunity to again highlight an important but often overlooked consequence of war - the diversion of resources from development toward the acquisition of arms. Even when wars end, the significant costs of rebuilding often set development back by many years. Armed conflict, even when rooted in legitimate defence, has long lasting negative consequence on the lives of millions across the globe, and civilians, including women and children, always bear the brunt.  

Attacks against critical Ukrainian infrastructure have continued and even intensified in recent months, causing billions of dollars in destruction, including extensive damage to energy infrastructure. The ongoing hostilities have resulted in the deaths of over 11,000 civilians, injuries to thousands more and has forced millions to flee their homes. The devastating impacts of a prolonged conflict are made clearer with every day that goes by.

We must once more stress that as members of the United Nations, we are all obligated to abide by the principles of respect for the sovereignty, territorial integrity, non-interference in the internal affairs of states, the prohibition on the threat or use of force, and the peaceful resolution of disputes.

Guyana will continue to be a fierce advocate for the peaceful resolution of this and other conflicts that continue to plague our world. We are a partner to all nations in the pursuit of diplomatic solutions and are committed to playing a constructive rule in any efforts that can bring lasting peace, security and stability to Ukraine and its people. We urge all parties to come to the table and begin to talk. Lives and livelihoods depend on this.

I thank you.