Statement by the Permanent Representative of Brazil to the United Nations, Ambassador Ronaldo Costa Filho, on Ukraine February 6th, 2023

Madam President,

I thank USG Martin Griffiths for his briefing and I congratulate OCHA for the professionalism with which it has conducted operations in Ukraine, under extremely difficult conditions and, at times, with enormous risks to the personal safety of humanitarian workers.

We welcome the arrival, in January, of the first humanitarian convoy to the Soledar region, one of the hardest hit by the fighting. These efforts have been critical to the survival of a significant portion of the Ukrainian population, threatened by bombings and missile attacks in residential areas and the destruction of energy infrastructure and hospital facilities, amidst the rigours of winter.

Brazil reiterates its condemnation of attacks against civilian targets, in violation of international law and international humanitarian law. We urge all parties to allow and facilitate the rapid, safe, and unhindered access of humanitarian assistance to those in need in and to protect civilians, including humanitarian personnel and persons in vulnerable situations, especially children. There must be no politicization of humanitarian assistance nor selective application of international humanitarian law.

We are particularly alarmed by recent signs of an escalation. We follow with concern news about the launching of a new military offensive, at the same time that the shipment of weapons and ammunition to the region intensifies. Reports revealed the use in combat of anti-personnel mines, in violation of the 1997 Convention on the Prohibition of the Use, Stockpiling, Production and Transfer of Anti-Personnel Mines and on Their Destruction. Brazil condemns the use of such destructive weapons. Historical examples show that their use will leave lasting consequences that will have to be dealt with by the Ukrainians long after the war is over. 

The logic of a military solution to the conflict still prevails between the parties. Brazil is concerned with the increase in the conflict’s deadliness by sending more weapons to the battlefield. As President Lula said, “Brazil is a country of peace. At this stage we must find those who want peace – a word that so far hasn’t being often used”.

The lack of willingness in the 1990s and 2000s to create a sustainable European security architecture was a ticking time bomb and we now see the consequences. Only a political solution agreed by all can bring lasting peace to the region and offer both sides an opportunity to coexist in harmony.

Madam President,

It is regrettable that the transfers of arms and ammunition dominate the public debate on the conflict in Ukraine. In light of the report we just heard about the deteriorating humanitarian situation, the priority of this Council and of regional actors should be the immediate cessation of hostilities and the opening of peace negotiations. We renew the call for a ceasefire without preconditions and reiterate our support and willingness to participate in mediation efforts.

I thank you.