Europe Urges Russia to End Hostilities and Commit to Peace Talks
The European Union has reiterated its commitment to supporting peace efforts in Ukraine, urging Russia to accept ceasefire proposals and halt its attacks on Ukrainian civilians and infrastructure. Speaking at the UN Security Council on April 9, Stavros Lambrinidis, the EU’s Permanent Representative to the United Nations, emphasized the EU’s readiness to assist Ukraine in achieving a lasting peace.
“We call on Russia to show its willingness to achieve peace without further delay,” Lambrinidis said, stressing that the EU would support Ukraine and its partners in upcoming peace initiatives. He underscored that any peace talks involving Ukraine must include Ukrainian representatives, and that European security must be a central consideration in any negotiations.
Russia’s Relentless Attacks Undermine Ceasefire Efforts
While Ukraine continues to seek peace, Lambrinidis pointed out Russia’s ongoing military aggression, with continuous air strikes on Ukrainian civilians and critical infrastructure. “The past week has provided ample evidence of Russia’s lack of interest in any ceasefire,” he stated, citing the devastating impact of Russia’s actions, which violate international humanitarian law.
EU’s Commitment to Ukraine’s Sovereignty
Lambrinidis reaffirmed the EU’s strong support for Ukraine’s sovereignty and territorial integrity, reiterating that the union would back Ukraine “for as long as it takes” to ensure a just and lasting peace in accordance with international law, including the UN Charter.
He concluded by stressing that the EU’s role would be pivotal in supporting Ukraine’s efforts toward a comprehensive peace, calling for an immediate end to Russia’s deadly campaign of air strikes.
Ongoing International Efforts
The EU’s statement comes amid increasing international pressure on Russia, following Ukraine’s call for urgent UN and OSCE meetings in response to a Russian missile strike on Kryvyi Rih. The conflict shows no signs of abating, with Russia’s military campaign continuing to take a heavy toll on Ukrainian civilians and infrastructure.
Source: Stavros Lambrinidis, Permanent Representative of the European Union to the United Nations, UN Security Council, April 9, 2024.
