Statement by the Deputy Permanent Representative of Brazil to the United Nations, Ambassador João Genésio de Almeida Filho, at the UNSC Arria Formula meeting on Ukraine - May 6th, 2022

Mister President,

As we enter into yet another week of the conflict in Ukraine, we continue to witness intense human suffering, with appalling scenes of thousands of desperate civilians trapped in the battlefield. Once again, we renew our plea for a broad, effective and immediate ceasefire, and call on Russia and Ukraine to resume negotiations conducive to a political solution to the conflict. Only after the silence of the guns and the withdrawal of troops are achieved will it be possible to halt the immense toll on human lives this conflict has brought upon.

We call on Russia and Ukraine to work towards agreements to allow civilians wishing to flee the hostilities to do so in safety. Those who decide to stay cannot become targets of attacks. In the same vein, parties must grant safe passage to relief consignments to those in need, adopt adequate measures to prevent disappearances, and share information on the status of protected persons under their control.

Brazil reiterates the call for all parties to fully respect and ensure respect for international humanitarian law. The causes of conflict, whatever they are, do not exempt the parties from their universal obligations to guarantee that civilians be protected, that the wounded receive medical care, that humanitarian assistance reach those in need and that detainees be treated humanely, in all circumstances. There must be no politicization of humanitarian actions nor selective application of international humanitarian law. Also, geopolitical objectives must not supersede the endeavor for peace nor prolong the human suffering caused by war.

Regarding the disturbing reports about gender-related violence, targeting of civilians, placing of weapons near civilian infrastructure, bombing of residential areas, massacres of innocents, and torture of prisoners, we favor the independent and thorough investigation of these human rights violations. Perpetrators must be held accountable.

Promoting compliance with international humanitarian law, protecting civilians, calling for peace – these are the objectives that should unite rather than divide us.

Thank you.