Statement by the Deputy Permanent Representative of Brazil to the United Nations, Ambassador João Genésio de Almeida Filho, on the Maintenance of Peace and Security in Ukraine - March 17th, 2023

I thank USG Griffiths for his contributions.

We have been following with extreme concern the attacks in recent weeks against targets in various cities in Ukraine, as well as the dramatic fighting around Bakhmut. Brazil reiterates the call for all parties to fully respect international humanitarian law and international human rights law.

It is a universal responsibility to ensure the protection and safety of civilians, provide humanitarian aid to those in need, and treat detainees humanely. These are non-negotiable obligations.

Brazil is also deeply concerned with the lack of improvement in the humanitarian situation in Ukraine. Urban areas continue to be shelled and civilian infrastructure destroyed.

We remind both parties of this Council's resolution 2417/2018, which indicates our obligations to spare civilian objects and critical infrastructure for delivering humanitarian aid, and to ensure the proper functioning of food systems and markets.

In order to put an end to this humanitarian crisis, it is necessary to seek pragmatic solutions. We urge all member states to pursue realistic ways to achieve peace. Protecting human life and safeguarding human dignity must always come first. In this regard, we would like to mention three points.

First, it is necessary to keep the channels open for dialogue. Insisting on military solutions, reinforced by unilateral sanctions, will not lead to an end to this conflict. Dialogue is the way to de-escalate and build trust. When there is engagement, it is possible to achieve positive results, as demonstrated by the Black Sea Grain Initiative.

Second, it is urgent that the two sides agree to cease hostilities, in accordance with Resolution ES-11/6, adopted by the General Assembly in February. Continuing to fight will only deepen the humanitarian crisis, increase casualties and destroy infrastructure, without resolving the underlying causes of the conflict. The continuation of this war also affects other countries, in the immediate neighbourhood, as well as in developing nations, hard hit by the collateral effects of the conflict on their economies and with limited resources and instruments to counter these effects.

Third, Mister President, we reiterate our support for a negotiated solution, that takes into account ways to prevent renewed violence in the future. Brazil considers it essential to understand the security concerns of the parties involved and respond to them in a constructive and pragmatic manner. We are ready to engage along with other willing countries in diplomatic efforts, based on the principles of the UN Charter and with the goal of a just and sustainable peace in the long term.

I thank you.