Putin’s War of Aggression in Ukraine increases Russia’s Diplomatic Isolation: UK statement to the OSCE

Dear Mr. Chair, I am excited to collaborate with you and your team throughout this trimester. I also appreciate the various Security Dialogue topics that we will be exploring during this time. Unfortunately, our primary focus continues to be Russia's unlawful acts of aggression towards Ukraine. By invading its neighbouring country, Russia has violated international law and disregarded the principles of our organisation. As a responsible group of states, it is essential that we acknowledge the gravity of this issue. Russia aims to conceal its brutal actions under the guise of diplomatic procedures and normality. However, we must not let this happen and instead, take a collective stance against Russia's actions.

In this world, nothing is considered usual; daily, innocent individuals from Ukraine lose their lives as a result of Russia's deliberate war. Russia has continued to instill fear and panic among Ukrainian citizens, which was shown by their recent missile and drone attacks that occurred in residential neighborhoods located in Kyiv and Kharkiv. Any perspective taken, Russia's complete invasion of Ukraine is nothing but a terrible occurrence for Russia. Despite their efforts to attain their goals, Russia's actions during the past week have not accomplished much besides their own equipment losses and increase in casualties.

Russia has had to increase their spending on defence to keep up with the war, which has had a negative impact on other sectors and has caused inflation to rise even quicker. Consequently, the Central Bank of Russia has made the decision to increase interest rates to 16%, twice the amount since July of the year 2023. The cost of the war for Russia is constantly increasing.

Thanks to the brave people of Ukraine and the overwhelming support of this Forum, Ukraine is standing strong against Russian aggression and thwarting their evil intentions. On January 14th, Ukraine destroyed a Russian A-50 MAINSTAY, which Russia had been using to monitor and control their operations over Ukraine. Despite the ongoing war, Ukraine increased their agricultural exports in December 2023 to the highest level yet, reopened their major Black Sea ports, and established a new shipping export channel. Ukraine has also successfully pushed back the Russian Black Sea Fleet from operating in the western Black Sea.

These accomplishments show what can happen when illegal aggressive behavior is challenged. This is nothing like Putin's claim that Russia would take over Ukraine quickly; now, almost two years since the invasion, Russia's diplomatic standing has lowered and it is partnering with North Korea and Iran.

After the UK Prime Minister visited Ukraine on 12 January, the UK has agreed to provide a larger package of support of around £2.5Bn for the next financial year. Additionally, they have signed a significant security agreement that will offer Ukraine the security assurances necessary for the long term. This increased package of support demonstrates the UK's strong and unchanging commitment to Ukraine's sovereignty and territorial integrity, and includes nearly £12Bn of military, economic and humanitarian assistance. Despite the brave efforts of Ukraine to protect their country and uphold democratic principles, the UK will always remain alongside them. The United Kingdom will continue to support Ukraine today, tomorrow and for as long as it is needed. Thank you.