Statement by the Permanent Representative of Brazil to the United Nations, Ambassador Sérgio França Danese, on the Situation in Ukraine - August 24th, 2023

Madam President,

I thank the United States delegation for scheduling this session. I also thank Under-Secretary-General Rosemary DiCarlo for her updates on the situation on the ground and Ms. Rashevska for her briefing. I also hope to read Mr. Kuleba’s testimony, which we were unable to hear today.

After eighteen months after the beginning of the hostilities in Ukraine, we deeply regret the tens of thousands of civilian and military casualties over the course of the conflict and offer our solidarity to the families of the deceased and the wounded and displaced. Armed conflicts always leave deep psychological scars that last for decades. It is hard even to imagine the extent of the trauma inflicted on innocent people, especially children.

As a peaceful and lasting solution to the conflict in Ukraine continues to be elusive, it is essential to limit, as much as possible, the impact of violence on the civilian population. We reiterate our call on all the parties to respect and ensure respect for international humanitarian law and the fundamental principles of distinction between combatants and civilians. The current dynamics of the conflict are depriving millions of basic and dignified conditions for survival, a concern that grows deeper specially with the approach of winter. It will be essential to intensify the call from the international community for a cessation of the hostilities and for negotiations that can bring the lasting solution we all hope for.

Madam President,

Brazil reiterates its appeal in favour of de-escalating hostilities and the opening negotiations. The resumption of dialogue does not prejudge the results of a future peace agreement. It can rebuild confidence where confidence and trust were shattered. It can provide the means to resolve urgent issues such as the situation of prisoners of war, humanitarian access, the security of nuclear facilities and the full resumption of transport of grain and fertilizers across the Black Sea, a claim made by a vast majority of countries, especially developing countries. Since the suspension of the Black Sea Grain Initiative, uncertainty about the food security of millions, including vulnerable people dependent on United Nations assistance programmes, has increased. We strongly encourage the parties to return to the negotiating table and to hold talks on resuming the agreement. While we see the reasons behind the suspension of the Grain Initiative, we believe that its merits justify renewed efforts in the search of a solution acceptable by and favourable to all involved.

Madam President,

Brazil reaffirms its commitment to a peaceful resolution to the conflict under the terms of Article 33 of the Charter of the United Nations. We hope that reason will soon prevail and allow for a political solution, taking into account the purposes and principles of the Charter and the legitimate security concerns of all parties. We welcome the recent facilitation efforts and reiterate our readiness to contribute to collective peace initiatives that could lead to a lasting solution for this war.

Thank you.