NATO Allies issue statement on anniversary of Russia's full-scale attack on Ukraine

BRUSSELS. Feb 24 (Interfax-Ukraine) – On the first anniversary of Russia’s full-scale attack on Ukraine, North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO) Allies issued a statement reiterating their call on Moscow to immediately withdraw its troops.

The text of the statement was distributed on Friday.

The Allies said Russia bears full responsibility for this war, a gross violation of international law and the UN Charter. “Russia’s actions disregard OSCE principles and commitments and gravely undermine international security and stability and the rules-based international order. While we have called on Russia to engage constructively in credible negotiations with Ukraine, Russia has not shown any genuine openness to a just and lasting peace. We remain determined to maintain coordinated international pressure on Russia,” the officials said in the statement.

In addition, the Allies condemned everyone, including Belarus, for actively contributing to this war and called for accountability for war crimes and international humanitarian law, especially against the civilian population of Ukraine, including the deportation of children and conflict-related sexual violence. “Russia must immediately stop this war and withdraw all of its military forces from Ukraine in line with the UN General Assembly Resolution adopted on 23 February 2023 and other relevant Resolutions of the UN General Assembly,” the Allies said.

In a statement, the Allies called Russia’s brutal war of aggression against Ukraine the most serious threat to Euro-Atlantic security in decades and reaffirmed solidarity with the leadership and people of Ukraine in the heroic defense of their nation, their land and our common values. The allies also paid tribute to the dead and deplored the tragic human suffering and destruction caused by Russia’s illegal war.

“We are further stepping up political and practical support to Ukraine as it defends itself against Russia’s invasion, and will maintain our support for as long as necessary to help Ukraine prevail. In this context, NATO will continue to coordinate closely with relevant stakeholders, including international organisations, in particular the EU, as well as like-minded countries. We remain resolute in supporting Ukraine’s long-term efforts to secure its free and democratic future. We reaffirm our unwavering support for Ukraine’s independence, sovereignty and territorial integrity within its internationally recognised borders. We fully support Ukraine’s inherent right to self-defence and to choose its own security arrangements,” according to the statement.

They also expressed their conviction that Russia’s war threatens global security. “Russia’s energy blackmail, its impact on global food supplies, its malign hybrid activities, its worldwide disinformation campaign, and its irresponsible nuclear rhetoric demonstrate clearly Russia’s disregard for international norms and the welfare of billions of people around the world. We will continue to strive for peace, security, and stability in the whole of the Euro-Atlantic area,” the statement said.

The Allies again reminded that NATO is a defensive alliance. “We remain ready to defend every inch of Allied territory in line with our 360-degree approach against all threats and challenges. Our commitment to the Washington Treaty, including Article 5, is iron-clad. NATO is stronger and more united than ever. We have welcomed the choice of Finland and Sweden to become members of NATO and reaffirmed our commitment to NATO’s Open Door policy. We will continue to strengthen our partnership with Ukraine as it advances its Euro-Atlantic aspirations. We are also further strengthening our other partnerships, including by assisting those countries most exposed to Russia’s malign influence. Russia’s efforts to break the resolve of the brave people of Ukraine are failing. One year on, Ukrainians are fighting valiantly for freedom and independence. We stand with them,” according to the statement.