Statement delivered by Ms. Neishanta Benn, Minister Counsellor, Permanent Mission of Guyana to the United Nations, at Security Council Briefing on “Threats to International Peace and Security” (Ukraine)

Thank you, Madam President

I thank Mr. Ebo for his brief this morning and take note of the information provided by Mr. Szamuely.

Guyana shares the concern expressed by Mr. Ebo about the risk of diversion and proliferation of arms and ammunition transferred into this or any armed conflict.  

We note that much of this risk will remain even after the fighting has ended and underscore the need for all involved to ensure that arms transfers comply with relevant disarmament instruments and UN Security Council resolutions. They must also have robust provisions and controls to prevent their diversion.  

We also took note of the fact that the supply of weapons and ammunition into an armed conflict has the potential to further escalate or prolong the violence.

The only effective means of preventing a further escalation or instability in Ukraine and the broader region, is to end this war. Its prolongation poses increasingly grave risks and consequences not only for the parties directly involved, but also for the countries in the region and global peace and security.

The scale of the current humanitarian needs in Ukraine remains quite vast and will only increase further in the coming winter months. 14.6 million people are in need with almost 4 million internally displaced and over 6 million living as refugees in Europe.

Yesterday, OCHA reported that the humanitarian situation in the country has worsened since August due to intensified attacks in the northeast, east and southern regions. Meanwhile the 2024 Humanitarian Appeal has received less than half of the requested US$3.1 billion, and response efforts face growing challenges, including safety risks.  

Guyana calls upon the international community to scale up support for the humanitarian response.  

We also call on the parties to the conflict to uphold their obligations under international law and minimize civilian harm; to grant unhindered humanitarian access to all persons in need; and to ensure the safety and protection of humanitarian workers.  

We also urge them to commit to a serious political and diplomatic process toward ending the conflict peacefully and with full respect for the sovereignty and territorial integrity of Ukraine.  

It is time to end the hostilities and deploy resources to rebuild the lives of the millions of people affected.  

I Thank You.