Statement by the Chargé d’Affaires, Ambassador João Genésio de Almeida Filho, on the collapse of the Kakhovka dam - June 6th, 2023

I thank USG Martin Griffiths for his briefing.

Brazil extends its solidarity to the people affected by the collapse of the dam at the Kakhovka Hydroelectric Power Plant. In view of the seriousness of the incident and its potential consequences, we consider evacuation efforts in the areas downstream of the Dnipro River to be a priority and urge the parties to the conflict in Ukraine to facilitate access for rescue teams and humanitarian workers.

We express our concern about the risks that the incident poses to the safety of the Zaporizhzhia Nuclear Power Plant. Even though the IAEA considers that there is no immediate danger, the possibility that the rupture of the dam affects the supply of water for cooling reactors and nuclear waste is a reminder of how close we may be to a nuclear catastrophe. We encourage parties to refrain from actions that could lead to this scenario and to increase their engagement with the IAEA to ensure the safety of nuclear facilities.

We also regret the environmental damage to the lower Dnipro and the surrounding area. The recovery of the affected region may require years of efforts.

We consider it essential to investigate the incident and hold those involved accountable. More important, however, is to bear in mind that the rupture of the dam would not have occurred if Russia and Ukraine were at peace. Prolonged hostilities are likely to lead to further tragedies in the future. We echo the Secretary-General’s call for an end to violence, a just peace and respect for international humanitarian law.

Mister President,

In recent weeks, several member states have approached the parties in attempts to engage them in the pursuit of a peaceful solution to the conflict. We hope that these initiatives will result in the resumption of dialogue and the cessation of hostilities, so that reconstruction can finally begin.

This is the wish of the vast majority of members of this organization. It is also in line with our obligations under the UN Charter and the needs of the civilian population of Ukraine.

And I thank you.