UNITED NATIONS GENERAL ASSEMBLY: AGENDA ITEM 67 – ‘THE SITUATION IN THE TEMPORARILY OCCUPIED TERRITORIES OF UKRAINE’
23 February 2022
Statement by H.E. The Hon. Mitch Fifield, Ambassador and Permanent Representative of Australia to the United Nations.
Australia condemns unequivocally Russia’s threats to Ukraine’s sovereignty and territorial integrity.
Russia’s recognition of the ‘Donetsk People’s Republic’ and ‘Lugansk People’s Republic’ as independent states is an attack on Ukraine’s sovereignty and territorial integrity. And it is a blatant violation of international law.
We condemn absolutely Putin’s decision to order troops into these parts of eastern Ukraine.
Australia stands with Ukraine and calls on Russia again to de-escalate the situation immediately.
Channels remain open for Russia to engage in diplomatic dialogue. And it should do so without delay.
We remind Russia of its obligations under the UN Charter.
We call upon Russia to uphold core Charter principles, including to refrain from threatening or using force against another State.
Australia welcomes the significant efforts undertaken by our close partners, including the United States, the European Union, and NATO in urging Russia to find a diplomatic solution.
Australia stands for openness, the rule of law and the right of all countries large and small to pursue their own interests free of coercion.
That is why we work with partners and allies to defend the international rules-based order.
Australia has been and will always be a steadfast supporter of Ukraine’s sovereignty and territorial integrity.
Australia continues to convey its strong support to Ukraine at the highest levels. Our Foreign Ministers met in Munich just a few days ago. And our Prime Minister spoke with his counterpart yesterday.
The Australian Government is taking action to sanction Russian individuals and organisations as part of the international effort to impose an acute cost on Russia for its unprovoked and unacceptable aggression against Ukraine.
If Russia takes any further action against Ukraine, Australia stands ready to take additional steps, working with our close partners.