‘What Encourages Aggressors is Weakness and Impunity’ – Ukraine's Deputy Foreign Minister on Peace, Transatlantic Unity, and More

In the context of escalating international challenges, Ukraine's Deputy Foreign Minister Mariana Betza highlighted the imperative of holding aggressors accountable and restoring justice for Ukraine during an interview on March 4 in Kyiv. She pointed out that if aggression goes unpunished, it is bound to be repeated.

Betza, who focuses on the legal ramifications of the war and its consequences, underscored that the term 'just peace' carries specific meaning. 'Firstly, a just peace means that Ukraine's sovereignty and territorial integrity are recognized and respected. Secondly, it means that all Russian war criminals, including political and military leadership, must be held accountable. And thirdly, it pertains to our captured citizens – civilians, children who have been abducted and deported, as well as prisoners of war,' she stated.

It is important to note that everything began in 2014 with the temporary occupation of Crimea and parts of the Donetsk and Luhansk regions by Russia. Then, in February 2022, a full-scale military aggression by the Russian Federation against Ukraine commenced, which has now been ongoing for over four years. February 24 marks a grim anniversary, and a resolution by the United Nations General Assembly passed last week in New York focused on a ceasefire as a prerequisite for a peaceful resolution to the conflict.

This resolution was adopted against the backdrop of entirely new geopolitical realities. Betza pointed out that in conditions where the international order is undergoing changes, a key question remains whether the institutions tasked with resolving these issues can act effectively.

She also emphasized the importance of the international community supporting Ukraine in its struggle for justice and the restoration of territorial integrity. 'We must work together to ensure that aggression does not go unpunished, and that all those responsible for these crimes will be held accountable,' Betza said.

As the Deputy Minister noted, international support is critically important for Ukraine, especially in the context of what is happening in the world. 'We are witnessing changes in international relations, and Ukraine needs to adapt to these changes to maintain its independence and sovereignty,' she added.

The interview with Mariana Betza took place at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Ukraine, where she discussed not only the issues of war but also transatlantic unity and the importance of international cooperation in the face of global challenges. She called for unity and collective action to ensure peace and stability in the region.