Statement by the Deputy Permanent Representative of Brazil to the United Nations, Ambassador João Genésio de Almeida Filho, on the Minsk accords - February 17th, 2023

Eight years ago, this Council met to adopt Resolution 2202, which endorsed the so-called Minsk package. The agreements signed by the Russian Federation and Ukraine in February 2015, with the decisive mediation of France and Germany, allowed for the end of hostilities.

Notwithstanding the collapse of the Minsk accords, we believe that its spirit could inspire a new effort towards a peaceful solution. It is necessary to discuss the end to this conflict, which has caused the loss of so many lives, so much devastation and has taken a heavy toll in food and energy security across the world. And it continues to present a serious nuclear safety and security risk to the region and to the whole world.

Brazil condemns the use of force to settle any dispute. It is our belief that the Security Council and the international community must act to promote peace talks between the Russian Federation and Ukraine, through the mediation of the United Nations and countries willing to contribute.

Madam President,

We also reiterate our call for the protection of the civilian population and the strict observation of international humanitarian law by all those involved in the conflict in Ukraine.

I thank you.