NEW YORK, FEBRUARY 23 – Addressing the United Nations General Assembly on the crisis in Ukraine, Italy reaffirmed its condemnation of Russia’s decision to recognize the independence of the self-proclaimed republics of Donetsk and Lugansk and to deploy Russian forces in the Donbass region: “These acts are unacceptable violations of Ukraine’s democratic sovereignty and territorial integrity, are inconsistent with the principles of the Charter of the United Nations and contradict the Minsk Agreements endorsed by the Security Council and of which the Russian Federation is a signatory party”, the Italian Deputy Permanent Representative to the UN, Ambassador Stefano Stefanile, said in his message to the GA.
The UN Secretary General, Antonio Guterres, opened the debate: “If the conflict in Ukraine expands, the world could see a scale and severity of need unseen in years”, he said, reiterating the inviolability of territorial integrity and political independence.
In line with UN General Assembly Resolution 68/262, Italy also reaffirmed its non-recognition of the illegal annexation of the Crimean Peninsula, and reiterated its unwavering support and commitment to Ukraine’s independence, sovereignty and territorial integrity within its internationally recognized borders. Stefanile recalled that this position has been stated by Italy also in its capacity as current Presidency of the Council of Europe.
Italy also called upon on Russia to reconsider its decisions, to de-escalate tensions, to withdraw military forces from Ukraine’s territory and to fully abide by its international commitments: “We urge Russia to pursue dialogue on security issues through the US-Russia Strategic Stability Dialogue, the NATO-Russia Council and the OSCE. We commend the Renewed OSCE European Security Dialogue launched by the Polish OSCE Chairmanship-in-Office and we encourage Russia to engage constructively in it. While the offer of dialogue remains standing, any further military initiative against Ukraine would trigger an additional united and firm response”, said the Italian Ambassador focusing on the plight of the civilian population in Ukraine as well.
After almost eight years of conflict and in light of the latest developments civilians continue to bear the heaviest burden, added Stefanile In this regard, Italy intends to support Ukraine with an amount of around 110 million euros in aid credit and grants. (@OnuItalia)
