On Thursday, February 23, 2023, the Chargé d’Affaires at the British High Commission Islamabad, Andrew Dalgleish, along with Defence Adviser, Brigadier Simon Waddington, welcomed the Ambassador of Ukraine, Markiian Chuchuk, & Defense Attache, Colonel Serhiy Dolenko ahead of the one-year anniversary of the Russian invasion of Ukraine.
During the meeting, the Chargé d’Affaires reaffirmed the UK’s strong commitment to helping Ukraine win the war against Russian aggression. He condemned Russia’s blatant violation of the UN Charter, targeting of homes, and human rights violations. He emphasized that if Russia’s actions go unanswered, it sets a precedent that other states’ territorial integrity and sovereignty can also be attacked. He further reiterated that the UK and its international partners stand united in condemning Russia’s aggression against a free and democratic country.
The Ukrainian Ambassador, Markiian Chuchuk, expressed his gratitude towards the UK and its international partners for their support in Ukraine’s fight against Russian aggression. He highlighted that Russia denies the legitimacy of Ukraine as a sovereign state and seeks to destroy Ukrainian statehood by waging a highly intensive war on Ukrainian territory. The war has caused the deaths of many civilians, including women and children. He reiterated that peace will come only after Ukraine’s territorial integrity has been fully restored within its internationally recognized borders.
The one-year anniversary of the Russian invasion of Ukraine marks a somber reminder of the ongoing conflict that has caused immense human suffering and geopolitical tensions. The invasion, which began on February 24, 2022, has resulted in the displacement of over a million people and the deaths of thousands of civilians and military personnel. Despite efforts by the international community, including the UK and its partners, the conflict shows no signs of ending anytime soon.
The UK has been a vocal advocate of Ukraine’s sovereignty and territorial integrity. It has provided military and humanitarian assistance to Ukraine and imposed sanctions on Russia in response to its aggression. The UK has also been actively involved in diplomatic efforts to resolve the conflict, including through the Normandy Format and the Trilateral Contact Group.
The meeting between the British and Ukrainian officials is a testament to the strong partnership between the two countries in their shared commitment to upholding international law and promoting peace and stability in the region. It sends a clear message to Russia that its aggression against Ukraine will not be tolerated and that the international community stands united in support of Ukraine’s sovereignty and territorial integrity.
Source: Gov[Dot]UK
