Statement at Arria on Drivers of Conflict in Ukraine
Statement
06 May 2021Thank you, Chair
Ireland remains saddened by the tragic loss of lives in Odessa on the second of May 2014.
Let me take the opportunity of this meeting to briefly set out once again Ireland's clear views on this situation.
I want to restate at the outset that Ireland strongly supports Ukraine's sovereignty and territorial integrity within its internationally-recognised borders and Ukraine's legitimate authorities.
In line with our respect for the fundamental principles of international law, Ireland does not recognize the illegal annexation of the Autonomous Republic of Crimea and the city of Sevastopol nor any political structure created on the basis of this attempted annexation.
I wish to reaffirm Ireland's full support to the endeavours of the Normandy format, the OSCE, the Trilateral Contact Group and the OSCE Special Monitoring Mission to Ukraine.
Ireland underlines that full, secure and unimpeded access for the OSCE SMM throughout Ukraine, as well as ensuring the safety of its monitors and equipment, is of paramount importance.
Ireland commends the constructive approach of Ukraine in the Normandy format and the Trilateral Contact Group and calls on Russia to reciprocate and to cooperate with the legitimate Government of Ukraine.
Ireland supports Ukraine's inclusive approach towards its citizens in the non-Government controlled areas including in the Donetsk and Luhansk regions.
Ireland reiterates that the ceasefire in force since 27 July 2020 must be used to move forward with the negotiations and calls on Russia to contribute to efforts to improve humanitarian conditions in eastern Ukraine.
We reiterate our call on Russia to allow unhindered access of international organisations and human rights actors to the non-Government controlled areas of eastern Ukraine and the Crimean Peninsula, and to respect international humanitarian law. We also continue to call on Russia to ensure unhindered and free passage to and from the Sea of Azov, in accordance with international law.
Finally, we recall the importance of avoiding propaganda, hate speech and intentionally divisive language, which may further aggravate the conflict.