Statement by the Deputy Permanent Representative of Brazil to the United Nations, Ambassador João Genésio de Almeida Filho, on Ukraine - May 18th, 2023

I thank Mr. Ebo for his briefing. Last February, when this Council first met to discuss the subject, we noted that the increasing emphasis on arms transfers in our debates signalled, in fact, a dangerous escalation of the conflict. This observation remains valid.

The right of states to self-defence is a fundamental principle of the UN Charter. However, more than a year since the beginning of the conflict, the necessary willingness to dialogue and the abandonment of the illusions of military victory are still not visible. Only a negotiated solution can bring about lasting peace.

Massive transfers of highly lethal weapons to the battlefront can further undermine prospects for a peaceful outcome. The increasing flow of weapons into the conflict in Ukraine will only fuel more violence and will not contribute to ending it. The presence of arms and ammunition in large quantities tends to become a destabilizing factor in the long term, compromising the chances of lasting peace in the region and beyond.

Madam President,

Brazil shares concerns about the risks of the diversion of arms and ammunition. The choices we presently make must bear in mind their repercussions and long term consequences. A significant worry arises with regard to the proper accounting of all dispatched weapons, particularly those that are lightweight, man-portable, and untraceable. There is abundant evidence that the uncontrolled supply of weapons in conflict areas can benefit criminal and terrorist groups, even after a ceasefire. It should come as no surprise in the near future if weapons directed at the war in Ukraine resurface elsewhere in the world, being employed for malicious purposes.

We must also consider the aftermath of armed conflicts. There are no shortage of examples of strong paramilitary groups and militias that retained possession of weapons and capabilities originally intended for a state, leading to unforeseen and harmful consequences. We must not underestimate the historical precedents of these capabilities being turned against their original providers. History demonstrates that when it comes to the transfer of weapons, the probability of the situation spiralling out of control is anything but insignificant.

Bearing this in mind, Brazil, as a party to the ATT, reminds the importance of this agreement as a milestone in efforts to regulate conventional arms transfers. We urge its states parties to adopt measures to ensure compliance with its provisions and encourage other states to adhere to the treaty or, at least, considering applying its main guidelines. We believe that cooperation between governments is the best way to regulate and monitor arms transfers.

Let me end by reiterating our call for a cessation of hostilities and the opening of peace negotiations, based on the principles of the UN Charter and giving consideration to the security concerns of all parties.

And I thank you.