Politico-Military Counsellor Ankur Narayan says that the UK's
priority is to ensure Ukraine is in the strongest possible
position for negotiations.
"Thank you, Mr Chair. The UK's commitment to supporting Ukraine
is unwavering. Our support is not only about providing military
assistance, which remains crucial in ensuring Ukraine's ability
to defend itself, but also about standing by Ukraine as it seeks
a just and lasting peace. As we take stock, it seems timely to
reiterate the importance of the principles of the Helsinki Final
Act.
Principle I includes the phrase: ‘Sovereign equality, respect for
the rights inherent in sovereignty, including the right to belong
or not to belong to international organisations.'
On 14 February the Prime Minister yet again reaffirmed the UK's
commitment to Ukraine's irreversible path to NATO and has since
called for ongoing support from Allies, as agreed at the
Washington Summit last year. Ukraine's aspiration to join NATO
reflects its desire for security and recognition of shared values
on democracy, rule of law, and human rights. The UK believes
Ukraine's NATO membership would strengthen the Alliance and
contribute to European stability and security. NATO has shown its
commitment to Ukraine's security through military support,
training, and intelligence-sharing, and remains determined to
assist Ukraine in defending its sovereignty and territorial
integrity.
Principle III includes the phrase: ‘Inviolability of
frontiers. States will refrain from any demand for, or act
of, seizure and usurpation of part or all of the territory of any
participating State.'
Principle IV includes the phrase: ‘Territorial integrity of
States. States will refrain from making each other's
territory the object of military occupation or other measures of
force in contravention of international law. No such occupation
or acquisition will be recognized as legal.'
We all want to reach a durable peace as soon as possible, no one
more so than Ukraine. Russia could end this war tomorrow, if
Russia chose to respect Ukraine's sovereignty and withdraw its
troops. A just and lasting peace is only possible if we
continue to show strength and provide Ukraine with the support it
needs to defend itself against continued Russian
aggression. The UK stands firmly with Ukraine in its
struggle for freedom, sovereignty, and security.
Principle V includes the phrase: ‘Peaceful settlement of
disputes. States will use means such as negotiation,
enquiry, mediation, conciliation, arbitration, judicial
settlement, or other peaceful means of their choice, including
any settlement procedure agreed to in advance of disputes to
which they are parties.'
We understand that peace cannot be achieved through force alone
but through a comprehensive, diplomatic process that respects the
rights and aspirations of the Ukrainian people. And we must be
clear that peace cannot come at any cost. It is vital that
Ukraine's voice is at the heart of any talks. President Zelensky
and the Ukrainian people have shown the most extraordinary
resilience. This is why the UK continues to work closely with its
allies to ensure Ukraine is in the strongest possible position
for legitimate negotiation when the time comes.
Peace comes through strength. This is the moment for us all to
step up – and the PM has made clear that the UK will do so,
because it is the right thing to do for the values we hold dear,
and because it is fundamental to our own national security.
Ukraine needs strong security guarantees, further lethal aid, and
a sovereign future. The UK is ready to play a leading role in
accelerating work on security guarantees for Ukraine. This
includes further support for Ukraine's military – where the UK
has already committed £3 billion a year until at least 2030.
In closing, it is critical to note that Ukraine is still fighting
with immense courage. Our priority is to ensure Ukraine is in the
strongest possible position for negotiations, and we believe
Ukraine's future is in NATO, as a member of a secure and stable
Europe. The UK remains resolute in its belief that Ukraine must
have a central role in shaping its future. This illegal war
instigated by Russia can end only when Russia chooses to withdraw
its forces and cease its unlawful aggression, allowing Ukraine to
chart its own course free from external threats. At this crucial
moment, we will not step back but step up our support to Ukraine.
Thank you, Mr. Chair."
