>> the un security council met monday to discuss ukraine. russia's ambassador accused the u.s. of creating hysteria. buildup with russia and ukraine. the russian ambassador to the u.n. responded that russia's action indicated planning military action against ukraine.

>> the provisional agenda for this meeting is international peace and security. i give the floor to the representative of the federation.

[speaking foreign language]

>> furthermore, we frequently refuted >> there is a need to relieve all of this frequently. working for the public. there is a need to review this. we do not think this is going to bring this cancel together -- this counsel together. rip up hysterics regarding his own situation regarding russian

aggression. it is something they want to do it including the security council. this is a great harm to ukraine itself. the president, as we have seen, has asked the country a few days ago not to rip up hysterics. since this all harms the ukraine . this is needed for people that believe in the russian aggression.

we would urge all colleagues to not use -- to push forward the propaganda of our colleagues.

if our american colleagues need to say in public any additional information about this, they can fully do this during the planned meeting in february. we would urge all sensible members of the council not to support this provocative proposal and treat the euro charter with respect. thank you. >> the representative of russian affiliation. i give the floor to the u.s.. >> we have called for this

meeting because of what we have all witnessed over the course of the past few months in terms of the actions of the russian federation territory on the border with ukraine. they indicate it is in their own territory but it is also very close to their neighbors border. it is a neighbor that has been invaded already before. it is a neighbor that has russian troops occupying their territory. we have had numerous meetings over the course of the past few weeks. both with russian officials and consultations with our european and ukrainian colleagues. all of these meetings have been in private. we think it is now time to have a meeting in public and have

this discussed in the public floor. we have worked with ukrainians, at their request, to provide assistance to them so that they can prepare for what they see as inevitable. including having provided 200 billion dollars in assistance in recent weeks. and over $5 billion in assistance since 2014. that is so they can be prepared. we are calling for this meeting to make everyone comfortable. imagine if you had troops sitting on your border and the way these troops are sitting on the border with ukraine. this is about peace and security. it is about honoring the u.n. charter that calls upon us as members of the security council

to protect peace and security. this is not about antics. it is not about rhetoric. it is not about u.s. and russia. what this is about is the peace and security of one of our member states. thank you very much, madam president. >> i think the representative of the united states. in view of the request made by the security council, i intend to put the provisional council to a vote. accordingly, i should put it to the vote now. with those in favor of the provisional -- the adoption of the provisional agenda please raise their hand. those against?

10 votes in favor. to vote against. the provisional agenda has been adopted. i want the representative of

belarus with ukraine to participate in this meeting. is this all decided? item two of the agenda. we are calling the security council -- to encourage all speakers and members of the council to deliver the statements in five minutes or less. we also encourage members to be

-- and encourage issues. limit remarks to seven to 10 minutes. everyone is encouraged to wear a mask at all times including while they are delivering remarks. i now give the floors to --. >> madam president, the united nations is following ongoing of the peace and departure -- the united states, members of the north atlantic treaty association, and the organization for the security and cooperation in europe. we hope and outcome of these talks will strengthen peace and security in europe, including for ukraine.

we were rain concerned that even as these efforts continue, tensions keep escalating in a military buildup is in the heart of europe. it is reported that over 100,000 troops and heavy weaponry for the federation are in a position on the border with ukraine. unspecified numbers of russian troops and weaponry are also reported being deployed to delacruz, ahead of joint military exercises in february on the borders of ukraine, poland and the baltic states.

the secretary-general has made clear there will be no alternative to deal with the conflicts, long-standing can -- long-standing security concerns and threats that have been raised. he has expressed his strong belief there should not be any military intervention in this context and diplomacy should prevail. he has been equally explicit in any such intervention by any country would be against international law of the united nations charter. his expectation is that we all contribute to avoiding confrontation and to creating conditions where a diplomatic

solution can in this crisis. to maximize the chance for diplomacy to -- to exceed. is the best way to safeguard region -- international peace and security. madam president, let me repeat the full commitment of the full united nations to the sovereignty, political independence, unity and territorial integrity of ukraine -- international warders with

resolution. it is important, especially at this time, for the international community to intensify its support for the efforts of the normandy ford and -- trilateral contact group to ensure the implementation of the missile agreements endorsed by this counsel and this resolution 2202. we welcome the recent meeting and their agreement to reconvene shortly as another sign that diplomacy could work. we commend these efforts and those of the oh ece monitoring. united agencies in ukraine are committed to delivering on their mandates in accordance with the humanitarian principles of neutrality, impartiality, humanity and independence.

safe, unimpeded access must be respected under any circumstances to provide support to the 2.9 million people in need of assistance. with the resort -- with the majority of non-controlled areas. in this regard, i encourage member states to contribute to the humanitarian response effort. further, the u.n. rights monitoring continues to document casualties in the conflict area. no one is watching the current diplomatic efforts more than the people of ukraine. they have enjoyed -- they have endured a conflict that has taken over their lives since 2014 and is tragically still far from resolution. it is painfully obvious that -- around ukraine would mean more

killing. with everyone's situation and the status quo of ukraine, the fact that it is not should give us pause. the principles and trying for the u.s. charter and multiple other commitments to safeguard international peace are crystal clear. many escalation or new conflict would deal another serious blow to the architecture so painstakingly built up over the last 75 years. i would like to stress the secretary-general's appeal to all concerned to take immediate steps to de-escalate tensions and continue on a diplomatic pass. the united nations stands ready to support all efforts to that end.

>> i thank -- for her briefing. i give the floor to those council members that wish to make statements. i give the floor to the representative of the united states. >> thank you madam president. and thank you, secretary dicarlo for your briefing. colleagues, the situation we are facing in europe is urgent and dangerous. the stakes for ukraine and for every u.n. member state could not be higher. russia's actions strike at the very heart of the u.n. charter. this is as clear and consequential a threat to peace and security as anyone can imagine. in the wake of world war ii, the council was formed to address precisely the kind of threat that ukraine now faces. as article 39 says, the security

council shall determine the existence of any threat to the peace. our charge is not only to address conflicts after they occur but also to prevent them from happening in the first place. this is why today's meeting is so crucial. russia's aggression today not only threatened ukraine, it also threatens europe. it threatens the international order this body is charged with upholding. in order that stands for that one country cannot simply we -- withdraw another country's borders by force or make another countries people live under a government they did not choose. we continue to hope russia chooses the path of diplomacy over the path of conflict in ukraine. we cannot just wait and see.

it is crucial that this counsel address the risk that they are aggressive in destabilizing behavior poses across the globe. let's be clear about the facts. russia has assembled a massive military force of more than 100,000 troops along the ukraine border. these are combat forces and special forces prepared to conduct offensive actions into the ukraine. this is the largest mobilization of troops in europe and decades. russia is sending even more troops. russia has already used more than 2000 with -- 2000 railcars to the ukrainian border. russia has moved nearly 5000

troops into belarus with short range ballistic missiles and antiaircraft batteries. we are seeing evidence that russia continues to expand that presence to more than 30,000 troops to the belarus ukraine border. in addition to military activity, we are seeing a dramatic spike and attacks in recent weeks. russian military are spreading this information to media and proxy sites and they are attempting without any factual basis to paint ukraine and western countries as the aggressors to fabricate a pretext. russia's military buildup on the border has been pared with extensive new demands and aggressive rhetoric. this is an escalation and

pattern of aggression we have seen from russia again and again. in 2014, russia illegally invaded and seized --. in 2018, russia invaded georgia. russia is refusing to depart margo but despite their people and the newly reelected government. in the region of ukraine, russia backed -- and ignored the ukrainian people. recently, russia has threatened to take military action should its demands not be met. if russia further invades ukraine, none of us will be able to say we didn't see it coming. the consequences will be horrific. which is why this meeting is so important today.

russia's -- has killed more than 300 million ukrainians. half of which are elderly and children who need food and lifesaving assistance. devastating as the situation is, it would pale in comparison to the humanitarian impact to the full-scale land invasion russia is currently planning in ukraine. over the years, russian leaders have claimed ukraine is not a real country and questioned its right to self-determination. let's be clear, ukraine is a u.n. member stated that recently celebrated three decades of independence. it is a proud people and a rich culture. ukraine is a sovereign country and a sovereign people entitled to determine their own future without the threat of force. this is not just the conviction that ukrainians hold, it is a

right by the u.n. charter. by the right of russia and every other member of this institution has freely committed to upholding. our international order is not perfect, but it is grounded in respect for people and countries to govern themselves, to defend themselves, and to associate with whom they choose. all countries have a state in preserving and defending these principles and nothing could be more fundamental. what would it mean for the world if former empires hat license to start reclaiming territory by force. this would set us down a dangerous path. russia could, of course, choose a different path. the path of diplomacy. in recent weeks, the united states, along with our european

allies and partners, and other nations around the globe, concerned by russia's threat to ukraine, have continued to do everything we can to do everything to resolve this crisis peacefully. in all these talks, our messages have been clear and consistent. we seek the path of peace. we seek the path of dialogue. we do not want confrontation. but we will be decisive, swift and united should russia further invade ukraine. we continue to believe there is a diplomatic pass -- a diplomatic path from the crisis. we are working to pursue diplomacy in every possible venue. but we also know diplomacy will not succeed in an atmosphere of threat and military escalation. that is why we have brought the

situation before the security council today. the united states has been clear. if this is truly about russia's security concerns in europe, we are offering them another opportunity to address these concerns at the negotiating table. the test of russia's good faith in the coming days and weeks is whether they will come to that table and stay at that table until we reach an understanding. if they refused to do so, the world will know why and who is responsible. members of the council and other member states, we urge you to assess not only russia's statements but their actions with clear eyes. to evaluate the risks this presents, not just to ukraine's border and its people, but to all of us.

and to speak clearly and forcefully in favor of the path of diplomacy, rather than conflict. >> thank you to the representative of the united states. i give the floors to the representative of albania. >> thank you madam president and thank you to -- for your briefing. the primary function of the security council is to prevent conflict in the world. in terms of prevention, the council has a long way to go. the council has seized many times the discussion of the ukraine since the beginning of the aggression in 2014. and here we are again today. we express our deep concerns on

russia and ukraine in recent months. military troops are being dispatched from east to west. this includes heavy combat forces. defense systems and ballistic missiles. some troops have been set to belarus. in 9427 years ago russia alleged

"madam president, it would be -- this is a challenge to the european order.

ukraine you -- ukraine repeatedly --

what can justify the loss of thousands of lives? severe stipulations, tensions, including what has been made repeatedly clear. severe consequences. no other place knows more about war and its disastrous consequences in this room. we must be able to see beyond and seek other means to who they are and who they seem to be.

finding solutions for negotiations in 2020. it remains now in the council. there are several mechanisms to be used for diplomatic efforts. such efforts should be used to create -- we hope this process will continue. madam president, we all should keep in mind the crisis surrounding ukraine has an impact on the whole europe. targeted attacks. political interference here and there for political gains and a growing tendency of genocide denial i hope this meeting will

be part of such efforts and i thank you. >> i think the representative of albania. i give the floor to the representative of the united kingdom. >> thank you madam president. i am grateful to general -- for her briefing. madam president, the first president of the u.n. charter defines our purpose here. to take collective measures of prevention and removal with threats to the people. today, over 100,000 russian troops -- they are equipped with tanks.

they are supported by air and maritime. in the words -- a sovereign country. madam president, in 2008, the council sending -- it was invading a independent democratic country. in 2014, russia denied to this country the presidents -- the presence of military forces. in reality, it's soldiers were annexing democratic ukraine.

yet again, we see this information. cyber attacks, at a democratic country. the united kingdom welcomes the discussion today as part of the intense efforts to ensure russia de-escalate the system. we are unwrought -- we are unwavering in support and democratic integrity. at the same time, we support russia, and right after discussions with the russian government. we are ready to address mutual security concerns based on an existing -- this includes our expectation that russia should

address concerns. we are committed to constructive dialogue that russia is committed to finding diplomatic. this is not a regional issue. any russian invasion or active aggression against ukraine -- russia's commitments under the charter. conflict without terrible bloodshed and destabilizing its national community. there should be no doubt about how closely this will be for russia or how devastating it will be for the people of ukraine. the only provocation is a democratic union. civilians caught in the crossfire will be forced to flee.

families grieving the loss of fallen soldiers. madam president, we urge russia -- under the charter. it has no plans to invade russia. it will refrain from the threats or use of force against his neighbors. it will not further undermine ukraine's sovereignty by military or any other means. and it will stand down is truth. thank you, madam president. >> i think the representative of the united kingdom. i give the floor to the representative of france. >> madam, president, ukraine's borders is a source of deep concern for france. the buildup of considerable

military capacity of the border of a military sovereign state that presents threatening conduct. it raises legitimate questions on russia's intentions. particularly since this country has already infringed the territorial -- ukraine in the past. france reaffirms its full support for the independent sovereignty and territorial integrity of ukraine within its internationally recognized borders. france called on russia to engage in de-escalating the situation to abide by international law and to participate constructively in dialogue within the framework of established international mechanisms. the priority is to work together towards a swift the escalation.

president -- has made efforts in that regard over the last few days during his trip to berlin and then during his telephone call with president putin. this security council meeting should also be in line with this objective. france supports all efforts of dialogue within the different frameworks and we hope the europeans will be fully involved . in the context of the normandy format that brings together germany, france, russia and ukraine, these efforts enable at the january meeting in parents -- in paris, an agreement on the conditional compliance with the cease fire and the implementation of the minsk agreement. we will pursue efforts at the next meeting planned to be held in short order in berlin.

dialogue, regardless of the venue, must observe the fundamental principles of the european community as established in the charter of the united nations and the founding documents of the osce. including the final act of the charter of paris. these comply and the quality of the integrity of states. nonrecourse to the threat or the use of force and the freedom of states to either choose or change veterans security measures. they are neither negotiable no proficient to reinterpretation. no series of influence have no place in the 21st century. if russia does not choose -- for

international law, the response will be robust and united. any infringement of the sovereignty integrity of ukraine by russia will have massive consequences and a severe cost. europeans are working on coordinated restrictive measures and stand ready together with their partners to react. if the path of dialogue in the context of threats and tensions, france confirmed its solidarity with ukraine people and government. with our european partners we will continue to mobilize in support of ukraine, particularly through support for reforms. thank you. >> i thank the representative of france and give the floor to the

representative of india. >> thank you, madam president. we have been closely following the evolving development related to ukraine, including through ongoing high-level security talks between russian federation and united states, as well as under the normandy format in paris. in this interest is finding a solution that can provide for immediate de-escalation of tensions, taking into account legitimate security interest of all countries and aimed toward securing long-term peace and stability in the region and beyond. we've also been in touch with all concerned parties. and are considered view the issues can only be resolved through diplomatic dialogue. in this context we welcome the efforts under way including under the minsk agreement and the normandy format. from the recently concluded meeting in paris under the

normandy format we also welcome the unconditional observance of the july 2020 cease-fire and reaffirmation of minsk agreements as the basis of work under the ongoing normandy format. in particular commitment of all sides to reduce disagreement on the way forward. we also welcome the agreement to meet in berlin in two weeks. we urge all parties to continue to engage through all diplomatic channels, and to keep working as to a free implementation of the minsk package. quite and constructive diplomacy, any steps that increase tension they best be awarded by all sides in a larger interest of peace and security. more than 20,000 indians, students and nationals live and study in different parts of ukraine including in its border areas. the well-being of indian national is a priority to us. madam president, i reiterate our call for the peaceful resolution of the situation by sustained

diplomatic efforts to ensure all sides are resolved through constructive dialogue. i thank you, madam president. >> thank the representative of india and i give the floor to the representative of ghana. >> thank you very much madam president. a few months ago this council voted to adopt the agenda to this meeting to consider the -- domains of international peace and security makes it imperative to encourage the part of dialogue and preventive diplomacy. that is only way to end the tensions, bridge the differences between the parties and forge a unified and specific position. on the situation here with ukraine. let me begin by thanking rosemary dicarlo, for the briefing.

i also welcome the precipitation -- purchase a patient the representatives of ukraine, belarus, poland, and lithuania in this meeting. ghana has been, in ukraine. i've also listen carefully to the briefings we just received from the chair as follows statement of delegations that is spoken before me. we have paid careful attention to the perspectives of the key parties to the situation, and hope that at the end of this meeting the views of members of this council would be close to each other than when we first began. ukraine while heather has been a buildup on russian troops on international recognized borders of ukraine zoster the presley, russian federation. we also taken note of the military buildup on the troops of the russian federation, of the parties are concerned about intentions of the buildup and perspective implications on international peace and study.

we welcome the ongoing dialogue between the russian federation at the united states, concerns that have implications on the situation in ukraine as well as the recent face-to-face dialogue between the representative of the russian federation and ukraine under the normandy format in paris. after months of no contact, we have, on accidental incident. we know the concern and implications of the economy of ukraine and neighboring markets and welcome in this regard a call by the president of ukraine for an easing of the strong narrative of the situation. this might be a time for confidence building for restoration of normalcy for the people of ukraine. in concluding, madam president, ghana believes in conformity with the provisions of the charter of this organization, differences between member states should only be resolved through peaceful means. we remain encouraged by the engagement between the parties

and reiterate our support for those efforts we should also take into account the delicate nature of the situation. i thank you very much for your kind attention. >> i thank the representative of ghana. i give the floor to the president of ireland. >> thank you very much madam president, thanks also to undersecretary dicarlo foryour briefing. madam president, today's discussion is an important opportunity for the council to address the developing situation at ukraine's borders which has become a matter of profound international concern. let me underline at the outset that ireland along with our eu partners is strong and unwavering supporter of ukraine's independence, sovereignty, and territorial integrity within its internationally recognized borders. at this moment of rising tension on ukraine's frontiers, arising from russia's military buildup, ireland calls for calm, de-escalation, and the pursuit of diplomacy.

we call also for constructive and determined engagement on all dialogue tracks, including the normandy format and the osce. ireland is fully committed to the core principles enshrined in the u.n. charter. these include the sovereign, the quality and a territorial integrity of states. we recall today for these principles were agreed collectively and freely by all members of the united nations . moreover, european security is built on a series of essential commitments and obligations, is a fundamental right of a sovereign independent state to chart its own path in the world, to choose its own foreign policy and to make arrangements for the security and defense of its territory. the helsinki final act one of the foundational documents of

the osce confirms obligation of state, and i quote, to respect each other's sovereign equality and the right of every state to enjoy the quality, to territorial integrity, and to freedom and political independence, end of quote. subsequent agreements including the charter of paris and the charter of european security agreed in istanbul in 1999 reaffirm the core principles and underpinning collective european security. madam president, earlier this month ireland marked 100 years of a hard-won independence. just as we would not accept another state determining our foreign and security policy, ukraine similarly has sovereign rights to choose its own policies. in this council we are too often faced with the terrible humanitarian consequences of violent conflict, usually over

diplomacy and dialogue of have failed. force is never the answer. it is not the answer now. what is needed now above all is and negotiated diplomatic solution that reinforces our collective security in europe. we have the institutions and the mechanisms within which to pursue this solution. let's use them. absent that it will be innocent civilians who once again pay the awful price of conflict. madam president, that is not a prospect any of us wish to contemplate. thank you. >> i think the representative of ireland and they give the floor to the representative of china. >> [speaking chinese] translator: thank you,madam president. madam president, china opposes the security council's holding of this meeting as requested by the united states. the permanent representative of the u.s. to the u.n.

in her letter to the president to the council dated january 27, claimed that the reason why the u.s. is asking the council told this meeting was that russia's deployment of troops along the ukraine border posed a threat to international peace and security. china cannot align itself with this point of view. recently, there has indeed been some tensions over ukraine, and we are paying attention to what exactly are causing the tensions. some countries led by the united states have claim that the will soon be a war with ukraine. russia has repeatedly stated that it has no plans to mount any military action, and ukraine has made it clear that it does not need a war. and as such circumstances, what is the basis for the countries

concern to insist that there may be a war? we note that the united states, ukraine, and relevant european countries as well as nato are having varying forms of diplomatic contacts with russia. what we urgently need now is quiet diplomatic but not microphone diplomacy. this is the viewpoint held by many members of the council who have also made unrelenting efforts towards this end. regrettably, if the u.s. did not accept such a constructive proposal. at a time when dialogues are underway and concrete programs

yet to be made, the holding of such an open meeting by the council is clearly not conducive to creating a favorable environment for dialogue, nor is it conducive to diffusing the tensions. china once again calls on all parties concerned to remain calm, not to do anything to aggravate tensions. or hype up the crisis. but to properly resolve their differences through consultations on the basis of fully taking into account each other's legitimate security concerns and on the basis of mutual respect. madam president, china's position on ukraine is consistent. to solve this issue we still need to return to the origin of implementing the new minsk agreement. this agreement endorsed either

security council in its resolution 2202 is a binding foundation of political document recognized by all parties, and should really be effectively implemented here. china supports all efforts in line with the spirit of this agreement in the hopes that all parties concerned will show their positive willingness to implement this new minsk agreement resulting differences arising from the limitation of the agreement through consultation. and promote the actual implementation. the extension of nato is difficult to circumvent, many feel it is the product of the cold war, and nato's function epitomizes group politics.

we believe the security of one country cannot be achieved at the expense of the security of other countries. still less can regional security be guaranteed. today in the 21'st century all parties have completely abandoned the cold war mentality and come up with a balanced and effective and sustainable mechanism for legalization's. and russia's legitimate security concerns should be heated and addressed. thank you madame president. >> i think the representative from china and i give the floor to the representative from the russian federation. >> thank you madame president. we would like to thank her for her briefing and i would like to thank those countries who conducted themselves and made it possible to vote against or abstain against the proposal of the us to discuss this topic today.

one might have the impression that russia is scared of discussing the situation regarding ukraine and therefore put forward this procedural vote. russia is not refusing to discuss the situation in ukraine , but we just don't understand what we are discussing here today and why we are here today. as i already said on 17 february we are planning to hold a , meeting during our 17th anniversary of the implementation of the minsk agreements. where we are able to talk about the situation regarding ukraine settlement but today's meeting is not about that. recently we've been answering a very unusual even given today's difficult time situation.

a very unusual situation. the deployment of russian troops within our own territory has frequently occurred on varying scales before and has not caused any hysterics whatsoever. troops and servicemen who are in their own areas of deployment and barracks where they were before. they are not actually on the border. so this deployment of russian troops in our own territory is getting our western and us colleagues to say there's going to be a planned military action and even an act of aggression, but the uspr states that action

of aggression has already taken place if you carefully listen to her statement. the military action of russia against the ukraine that they're assuring us is going to take place in just a few weeks time if not a few days time, there however is no proof confirming such a spurious accusation whatsoever being put forward. however it is not preventing people from whipping up hysteria to such an extent an actual economic impact is already being felt by our ukrainian neighbors. colleagues are talking about the need for de-escalation but there is they themselves are whipping up tensions and rhetoric and provoking escalation. the discussions about the threat of war is provocative and end of -- in and of itself. you are calling for this.

you are waiting for it to happen. you want to make your words become a reality. this is despite the fact that we are constantly rejecting these allegations, and this is despite the fact that no threat of a planned invasion into ukraine from the lips of any russian politician or public figure over all of this period has been made. no threat has been made. all along we've been categorically rejecting such plans and we are going to do this right now. everybody who claims the opposite is misleading you. if our western colleagues who provoked and supported the 2014 bloody anti-constitutional coup bringing to power ts nationalists, and fewer fascists, nazis rather, then we today would be living in mutual

cooperation. however, some in the west don't clearly like this positive scenario. what's happening today is yet another attempt to drive a wedge between russia and ukraine . thanks to their geopolitical gains our colleagues have been suffering for some seven years now. the ukrainians are actively being brainwashed and cultivated with russianphobian and radical thinking and the four ukraine to have a bright future and decide to join the eu. they are battling russian which is not the majority of people in ukraine. they are causing an orthodox split.

or divide. they are making heroes out of those people who fought on the side of hitler who destroyed jews, poles, ukrainians and russians. the interests of the ukrainian people in this destructive game is something our western colleagues are not taking into consideration. their aim is to prevent the natural brotherly coexistence of our two peoples. or brotherly peoples. peoples and countries rather. which would destroy their plans to weaken russia and would create an arc of instability around it. there's nothing that we're seeing in the same spirit of divide and conquer. the divide and rule, the same spirit was characteristic for

western powers or western states rather earlier. it is also noteworthy that our colleagues are getting the sham tension they themselves created on the russian ukrainian border. the negotiation process would ensure russia's legally binding security guarantees. they deliberately are creating the impression that moscow apparently it is specifically stirring up tensions that means it can be more successful for the us and nato. if you look at the timetable for the negotiation process you'll see that such considerations are fundamentally untrue. the situation in fact is completely the opposite and our western colleagues are trying on a the top of this wave to broil our so-called settlement on the

border with ukraine. our security demands a much broader. the non-annexation of ukraine into nato. the non-deployment of foreign troops, this is just one part of the agreement that could fundamentally improve the military political situation in europe and for the world as a whole. and this type of agreement is something that we've talked about in the eu summit where apart from the freedom to choose allies or alliances would also be a stipulation that the entities of some states should not be carried out to the detriment of the security of other states. since our american colleagues convened us today let them show

us any evidence apart from this narrative that russia is intending to attack ukraine. in the statement of my american colleagues there was significant hodgepodge of accusations of aggressive action by russia but no specific facts given. incidentally i'd like to put a question not only to our us colleagues but also to those. where did you get the figure of 100,000 troops that are deployed as you state on the russian ukrainian border although it is not the case. we have never cited that bigger, we have never confirmed that vigor. -- figure. we do recall this and recall this since the secretary of state colin powell in this very room weaved around a file with an unidentified substance as so-called evidence as the presence of wmds in iraq. they didn't find any weapons but

what happened in that country is well-known to one and all. ukraine, as well is a country that it seems our colleagues are prepared to sacrifice for their own interests. otherwise it's hard to explain why in convening today the initiators of the group did not even heed the opinion of the president of ukraine who asked the west not to whip up panic. which has already had harmful impact on the economic situation in our country. otherwise it's difficult to explain why our colleagues from the us and other countries are actively pumping ukraine full of weapons and ammunition and talk about this with great pride moreover. the weapons that it would readily be used in civilians in the east of its own country and all this is being done and the violation of the minsk agreements approved by the un security council as the only

basis for a peaceful settlement of the internal ukrainian conflict. incidentally, to my american colleagues he mentioned the fact that 14,000 people have died in the conflict i would recommend she read the report of the special monitoring mission on osce and look at what side, how many people died on each side. most of these people are civilians in donbas who died from shelling from the ukrainian armed forces. madam president, the maneuvers of the u.s. regarding this meeting are particularly hypocritical, because it is the americans who hold the record for having troop presence outside their territory, american troops advisors and weapons including nuclear weapons are frequently deployed.

thousands of kilometers from washington and we're not even talking about the fact that the military centers of the us have killed hundreds of thousands of civilians in places where they were supposed to be bringing peace. the us has used force against other states without the authorization of the security council. in their coercive measures, there is the threat of implementing it is like the ruling of some kind of supreme court. for example, many countries at the un have been subject to aggression or attacks by 191,000 countries of the security council have seen american troops deployed there. there is intro incontrovertible evidence on the internet that there are 750 us bases in more

than 80 countries of the world. the overall number deployed of us troops, this is 175,000 troops deployed abroad. 175,000 and 60,000 troops are deployed in europe. the volume of the u.s. military budget was $778 billion dollars. so russia's budget was 12 times that. these examples are specific threats to international peace and security. as regards the calls to settle the crisis regarding ukraine, we wholeheartedly say this crisis

has one dimension. it's domestic ukrainian crisis and proving it can only be done through key have implementing the already mentioned military agreement that stipulates primarily direct dialogue. there is no other option if our western partners push them to sabotage the minsk agreement, something that ukraine that they are willingly using, willingly doing. and that might and in the worst way for ukraine and not because somebody has destroyed it but -- and that might and in the worst way for ukraine, and not because somebody has destroyed it, but because it would have destroyed itself. and russia has absolutely nothing to do with it. stop trying to shift the blame on somebody else. and we are going in to talk

about all this in detail on the 17th february during the long planned annual minsk council meeting. thank you. >> i thank the representative of the russian federation and give the floor to the representative from kabul. >> i'd like to thank the undersecretary general for everything. madam president. -- for her briefing. madam president, my country is following closely the prevailing situation at the borders of ukraine and russia. we have taken all the information on a considerable mobilization of russian troops at ukraine's border that portend eminent military action. this alarming information may have been accompanied on the ground through a maelstrom of activity along with the deployment of troops and military hardware from friendly countries of ukraine. the consequential rhetorical escalation and acute tension are

polarizing important diplomatic activity conducted through the various initiatives, including the normandy format in the framework of the implementation of the minsk agreement. in the face of the situation, there are particularly worrisome intentions. my country aware of the what is in place called on all stakeholders to favor restraint and favor the part of dialogue and negotiation in order to preserve peace and stability in the region. it is time for the international community and its members to activate the channels of preventive diplomacy, such as those divided by chapter 6 of the un charter, and trying in the peaceful settlement. it is clear that the effectiveness of this preventative diplomacy depends not only on the good faith of the protagonist, but also on the

tactful and calm conduct of the framework within such diplomacy occurs. we see a two-sided rhetoric. on the one hand, an alarming rhetoric on the imminence of military action, and on the other, a denial from the other side. these intensified the fragmentation of this counsel just as the people of the world are expecting from our counsel a consensus and resolute action commensurate with the havoc wrought by wars and prices that dashcam crises -- wars and crises that are bringing bloodshed to federal regions of the planet. the strength of this counsel lies in unity. it is unity and not fragmentation that make this counsel worthy of its mandate. we believe that diplomacy in its most practical and efficient form is capable of bringing calm to the border of ukraine. to conclude, i would like to echo here the appeal made last friday by the ukrainian

president, asking for parties to exercise restraint and refrain from whipping up panic. thank, madam president -- thank you very much, madam president. >> i thank the representative and give the floor to the representative of the field. >> thank you very much, madam president. thank you for the briefing he has put forward to the council this morning. geopolitical tensions and threats to international peace and security require the security council to engage promptly and timely. open references to military actions, unilateral economic sanctions, and other measures are developing developments that should be avoided under the un charter. the security council must fulfill its primary objective, which is to prevent war. there is a general and urgent need to resort to meaningful

dialogue with and between the parties directly involved in the escalation of tensions. we urge all parties to exercise maximum restraint and to engage constructively in talks aimed at resolving their differences. there is room to restore confidence and find a lasting diplomatic solution to this crisis. for that, we need political will and genuine commitment from both sides. we urge all parties to strictly observe international law. it is imperative to apply the principles enshrined in the charter consistently. in a nonselective manner. the prohibition of use of force and peaceful resolution of disputes and principles of sovereignty, territorial

integrity, and the protection of human rights are pillars of a collective security system. brazil also highlights the need for good faith, in order to address legitimate security concerns of all parties. including russians and ukraine. -- russia's and ukraine. we encourage parties to pursue general talks on the implementation of the minsk agreement. security council agreement 2202 which provided useful guidelines to address the situation in eastern ukraine is also a valuable tool in the diplomatic efforts to overcome the situation. brazil welcomes the resumption of talks in the normandy format and the renewed commitment to the cease-fire in eastern ukraine. despite the sensitive and difficult nature of the issue on our agenda today, i would like

to conclude with a note of hope. it has been encouraging to hear over the past few days statements to the effect that there is no military solution to the situation. at this moment, in particular, this should be the motto of the whole united nations membership and our security council for renewed commitment to diplomacy and prevention. i thank you, madam president. >> i thank the representative from brazil and give the floor to the representative from kenya. >> thank you, madam president, for giving me the floor and also for the able way in which you have presided over the security council in the month of january. i thank the undersecretary general for her frieding and i welcome the participation of the

representatives of ukraine, belarus, and poland. kenya abstained on the procedural vote to hold this meeting. we did so to reflect our contention that the main issue in question here is the impasse between nato and the russian federation. we believe that it is eminently solvable and that the diplomatic steps underway already show promise. this, rather than escalation in search of a winner take all outcome, is what is required. to support and protect international peace and security. kenya has always maintained that the respect for the territorial integrity and sovereignty of all countries is a cornerstone of global peace. where there are disputes regarding territorial jurisdiction, all security interests, we strongly support patient diplomacy of the first, second, and third options.

when the dispute is between major powers, and regards the security of a third country, it is imperative that they embrace a spirit of compromise. we believe that the united states, nato, and the russian federation have an opportunity to establish a diplomatic framework that will allow them to resolve their differences. their security and that of the entire world depends on them willingly taking this step. not in ushering in a new age of containment, provocation, and proxy options. compromise is not surrender. the special powers given to the security council's permanent members demands that they embrace this principle, if the united nations is not to go the way of the doomed league of nations.

africa recalls the rejections of compromise and the search for total victory that led to the cold war. we experienced that cold war as a series of hot wars and interventions that deeply damaged our dreams for peace, development, and competent inclusive government. our internal divisions and fragilities were weapon eyes at -- were weaponized at the altar of geopolitical rivalry. it confirms the truth of the african saying that recognizes that when elephants fight, it is the grass that suffers. madam president, given that the majority of the conflict situation that the security council deals with art in africa, we do not want them to serve a surrogate for a new cold war.

we in africa therefore have a direct stake in de-escalation and renewed faith in diplomacy. we have serious challenges before us together. rarely has the world urgently needed a united nations that can deliver ambitiously. madam president, kenya believes that there is plenty of opportunity for the normandy format talks, the trilateral contacts group from ukraine, and direct negotiations between the united states and russian federation to produce a satisfactory outcome. we urge all these parties to ensure their negotiations respect the security, sovereignty, and territorial integrity of ukraine. faith in innovative diplomacy may also allow for agreement between today's major powers, inspired by the 1975 helsinki accords, which did deliver some

stability to europe during the cold war. this time, however, such agreements need to advance the principle of noninterference to other parts of the world, and particularly to africa. madam president, in closing, it is critical that diplomacy and its acceptance of compromise as an inevitable outcome wins the day. if there are future discussions to be held in the security council on this matter, let it be to announce a new era of cooperation. i thank you. >> i thank the representative of kenya and give the floor to the representative of mexico. >> muchas gracias. thank you, madam president. thank you to the undersecretary general for her briefing. i would like to welcome the

representative of the ukraine, belarus, poland, and lithuania to this meeting. madam president, i'd like to begin by noting that my country deems the holding of this meeting as timely and in accordance with our foreign policy procedures. in addition, we deem it relevant, since the council must be informed about the prevailing situation in ukraine. it is not in our interest to contribute to further polarizing the narrative. thus, i will limit myself to noting what, for mexico, should be basic principles for the consideration of this matter, in accordance with the united nations charter. in this case, i will refer to three of them. the prohibition on the threat of the use of force in

international relations. the principle of nonintervention, and the peaceful settlement of disputes. on the first principle, the mere escalation of tensions in eastern europe represents a potential threat to international peace and security and thus it falls within the purview of this council, pursuant to article 39 of the charter. for this very reason, and in light of the prevailing mistrust, it's important to try to avoid any type of action that might be considered hostile by any of the parties however slight it may seem.

but it is, however, encouraging to hear what we have just heard from the representative of the russian federation. he was very clear in reiterating here that there is no planned invasion in ukraine. i think that i have cited what he said word for word. how good it would be if that were the case. this is a unilateral statement of nonaggression. mexico maintains, together with what has been said by the secretary general and others here in this room, that there is no military solution in this issue. on the contrary, preventative diplomacy and dialogue should be followed as means to achieving and easing the tension and there are various channels. to that end, the conversations in geneva, the trilateral

contact group, and the normandy format. on nonintervention, we reiterate the importance of respecting the sovereignty, unity, and territorial integrity of ukraine. in full adherence to international law, the united nations charter, and resolution 2625 of the general assembly. hence, it falls to this security council to determine as applicable the existence of an act of aggression. in accordance with general assembly resolutions 3314. added to what i have just stated, this principle is further bolstered by the principle of full settlement of disputes. they have the duty to settle their disputes by peaceful means, as established in

international law. mexico has upheld and will continue to uphold diplomacy above force. and diplomatic power for this particular case remains open. they have not been exhausted. madam president, whether where -- where there is no doubt is with regard to the responsibility of this council to make its due preventive effort to act, as warranted by the circumstances and i firmly believe that in holding this meeting we are doing that. we are complying with our mandate without excess nor omission. thank you, madam president.

>> i thank the representative from mexico and give the floor to the representative from the united arab emirates. >> thank you, madam president. at the outset, i would like to thank the undersecretary general for political building for her affirmative briefing. the uae is closely monitoring recent developments in the context of our discussion today i would like to focus on the following aspect. first, the uae firmly believes the dispute in europe requires various countries in the region to engage in a serious dialogue based on the valleys of stability, coexistence, and peace. we stress the importance of reaching a negotiated solution to this issue through available mechanisms and with the support of regional organizations, we adhere to the north normandy format talks and the initiative of the chair of the organization for security and cooperation in europe that aims to initiate a substantive dialogue on european security. to address the security concerns of its members, we also welcome

president zelensky's appeal for calm. and we hope to build on it to further build confidence in the region. second, the uae welcomes the announcement made in the normandy format meeting on the 26th of january, in which the russian federation and republic of ukraine concerned their intentions to implement an unconditional cease-fire in eastern ukraine. we are counting on the various initiatives currently underway to allow for dialogue, including between the united states and the russian federation, whose existing diplomatic effort must be supported and given space to achieve the desired results. the uae also stresses the importance of maintaining security and stability, as well

as the central importance of the minsk agreement and the need to adhere to them and ensure their implementation. this will contribute to reaching a comprehensive regional understanding that maintains security and stability of the concerned countries and addresses all concerns. third, escalation must be avoided, as it could have a negative impact on civilians and exacerbate the fragile humanitarian situation in eastern ukraine. in this spirit, we stress the importance of considering the humanitarian needs of civilians and of preventing the deterioration of the humanitarian situation in the region. fourth, respect for and adherence to international law is essential to ensure the situation in eastern europe does not deteriorate further. we stress the importance of this principle -- of the principles of sovereignty, territorial integrity, and good

neighborliness are indispensable for the maintenance of peace and security. and finally, madam president, the uae reiterates the importance of constructive dialogue to resolve differences. the role of the security council as the body responsible for maintaining peace and security is essential to provide a diplomatic platform that enables states to resolve their differences peacefully. thank you. >> i thank the representative of the united arab emirates and i shall now make a statement in my capacity as representative of norway. let me express norway's strong support for ukraine's sovereignty and territorial integrity within its recognized borders. this includes the crimean peninsula and its territorial waters. norway is deeply concerned about the russian large-scale military buildup near ukraine's border. and in crimea. this is unprovoked and unjustified, and further escalation can have devastating

consequences. due to unrealistic demands, russia challenges the security architecture in all of europe. it not only affects the region, but national security. russia has repeatedly accused nato of increasing tensions. i would like to underline the alliance is defensive and voluntary. we do not seek confrontation. at the same time, we will not and cannot compromise on the principles and are ready to discuss security concerns. norway's support for european security orders and international law and sovereignty, we cannot allow this to be replaced by insolence. every country has the right to security alignment. we call on russia to de-escalate and engage constructively on dialogues through international and established mechanisms in good faith. furthermore, norway underlines its support for existing frameworks for the sustainable and peaceful resolution of

conflict, in accordance with international law. russia has repeatedly invoked in many other council discussions the principles of respect for sovereignty and territorial integrity. russia cannot respect these when it comes to kyiv. thank you. i shall now give the floor to the representative of the united states, who has asked for the floor to make a further statement. >> thank you, madam president. i can't say that i am surprised by my russian colleagues' comments, but i am disappointed. madam president, i cannot let the false equivalency go unchecked, so i feel i must reply. -- must respond. let me be clear, there are no plans to weaken russia, as claimed by our russian colleagues today. on the contrary, we welcome russia as a responsible member of the international community.

but its actions on the border of ukraine are not responsible. the threats of aggression on the border of ukraine, yes, on its border, is provocative. our recognition of the facts on the ground is not provocative. the threats of action of -- of action if russia's security demands are met is provocative. our encouraging diplomacy is not provocative. the provocations from russia, not from us or other members of the council. we have made clear our commitment to the path of diplomacy. i hope our russian colleagues will also choose this path and engage peacefully with the international community, including ukraine. i say to russia simply this -- your actions will speak for themselves. and we hope and encourage that you make the right choices before this council today. thank you very much.

>> i thank the representative of the united states and give the floor to the representative of the russian federation who has asked for the floor. >> thank you, madam president. i didn't plan to enter a dialogue between russia and the u.s. in this meeting. everything we want to say in our statement today, however, we really just don't understand what threats and provocations and escalation by russia is being talked about. okay, fine. you've already said this in your statements. but i want to say that what i heard from the u.s., i didn't hear any mention or any reference to the minsk agreements or the 2202 resolution. that is very indicative, incidentally.

since this is the context that we are talking about, the ukrainian crisis. the u.s. is looking at this from a completely different angle. and ultimately, madam president, i would like to apologize to the members of the council, and i don't want to change the situation. really, just before our president speaks -- the security council has to meet with the secretary-general, so i can't change this situation because of the sg. i do apologize. >> i thank the representative of the russian federation. i wish now then to remind all speakers again to limit their statements to no more than five minutes, in order to enable the council to carry out this work expeditiously. i now give the floor to the representative of ukraine. >> thank you, madam president, i would like to apologize that i may not be within the five

minute limit, especially given the length of the russian intervention. i would like to express my gratitude to the norwegian presidency for calling this briefing of the security council. of the need of which i spoke exactly a fortnight ago with your excellency and the minister of norway. during our meeting here in new york. i expressed our thanks to the u.s., who as a member of the security council in close coordination with ukraine and partners, requested today's briefing. and of course, express our appreciation of the presentation by the undersecretary. it's the duty and need for the security council to be fully

informed, in case of grave threats to international peace and security. what is going on along the border with ukraine, where the russian federation continues its military buildup, falls under the above qualifications. it is important that ukraine's vote is heard today in the security council. and is not lost in translation. when the position of my country has been delivered by a foreign ambassador in the russian language. i would ask the deputy to tell him that my leadership speaks its language, has its own ambassadors and spokespersons. so there is no need to interpret the laws of ukrainian officials in a foreign language. especially if it is done the way

of humpty dumpty. we spoke of the meaning of the vote. even lewis carroll appears to be a favorite writer of the russian diplomats. against the backdrop of unprecedented high-level diplomatic context in the past few weeks, a serious talk in the security council is required more than ever. to present facts, to listen to each other's positions and concerns, as well as to outline further actions towards the de-escalation. the fact is that nowadays, about 112,000 russian troops have been amassed around ukraine's border. and in crimea. and together, with a maritime and aviation component, their number reaches about 140,000. another fact is that russian

troops are also being deployed to belarus. for the union 2022 joint groups -- joint drills to be held on the 20th of february. they include in particular missile divisions and 400 troops in antiaircraft systems. on top of that, on 26 january, the russians fleet started another military operation in the black sea with involvement of battleships, missile ships, landing ships, and minesweepers. this reminds us of the ongoing heavy militarization of the temporarily occupied crimea, the black sea, and the sea in russia, which poses a serious threat to ukraine.

all states there by the region. significant reinforcement of donbas capabilities is another worrying trend. currently, the formation consist -- formations consist of 35,000 personnel, including brands 3000 servicemen of the russian armed forces, on command post and and other critical combat positions. in the border areas outside government controlled illegal border crossings. delivering armed supplies to the russians formations in donbas is a routine practice. all we see at the reports provide ample evidence of various illegal activities in the border areas. i'm also surprised restrictions of the oecd freedom of movement are on the increase. in particular, in nongovernment

controlled areas close to the on the 22nd of december 2021, a group reached an understanding on resuming the cease-fire. nevertheless, shootings, sheldon's, sniper fire on ukrainian positions have systematically -- we have lost servicemen and action and 14 wounded since the 22nd of december 2021. just a few days ago on january 25, armed formations of the russian federation once again attacked the positions in ukraine. fragmentation grenades resulted

in severe injuries to two ukrainian serviceman. the current impasse in consultations poses within the framework continues. while the decisions adopted during the december 2019 summit remain on implemented. over the past year and a half, we have seen deliberate efforts by the russian side to obstruct activities and prevents finalization for the already agreed including arrangements in the humanitarian areas. all of this is accompanied by russia's stubborn denial of being a party to the armed conflict which has been raging for eight years now.

attempts to impose direct dialogue with the puppet occupation administrations has resulted in an refusal to engage in substantive discussions on political settlements of the conflict. the question is, while these russian forces are there, we have asked this question along with sending clear messages. ukraine is not going to launch military offensive in crimea, nor anywhere else. ukraine sees no alternative useful resolution of the ongoing conflict, and restoration of sovereignty and territorial integrity. you will also see a disinformation campaign including false accusations of ukraine plotting a military attack. this is not going to happen. this is direct evidence of russia's unwillingness to

de-escalate and prepare to justify -- we are well aware of russia's history of ploys and provocations. we will do everything possible to prevent another provocation by russia. once again, i have clear instructions from my government to reiterate today the absence of any aggressive intentions as well as ukraine's strong commitment to peace. today we have heard from the russian side that they do not intend to launch a war against my country. although, one should speak of a new phase of russian aggression. it is very important as there are still -- we cannot believe

russian declarations, but only practical moves on the withdrawal of troops from the border. madam president, ukraine strongly rejects any attempt to use force as an influence for pressure to make ukraine and partners except illegitimate demands. there is no room for compromise on principal issues. the most principal position for ukraine is we have inherent sovereign rights to choose our own security arrangements. including treaties of alliance, which cannot be questioned by russia. moreover, this right is enshrined in many international legal instruments, ukraine will not bow to threats undermining

economic and financial stability and inciting public frustration. this will not happen. the kremlin must remember that ukraine is ready to defend itself. at the same time, we support the need to keep up with medic russia open. my president has reiterated most recently that he is ready to meet his russian counterpart. if russia has any questions for ukraine, it is better to meet and talk. not to bring troops to the ukrainian border and intimidate ukrainian people. for ukraine, the first priority today is to achieve a sustainable and unconditional cease-fire. the cease-fire richie must be guaranteed, reliable, and other

spaces before steps can be taken. escalation -- we are ready to resume talks in all formats. the recent political advisory meeting on the 26th of january in paris, despite many differences, is a hope for a continuation of the negotiation process which ukraine will staunchly support. madam president, we consider that despite the russian attempt to impede the briefing from being held, the security council and wider u.n. membership have received a very important information. information that the members of the security council need to take an informed decision to act swiftly and decisively in

employing diplomacy under the chapter six of the u.n. charter. after listening to the russian ambassador, i would like to ask how long russia will pursue a clear attempt to push a trap. i would perhaps acknowledge that it was important to hear the russian envoy today, and i must end with what my foreign minister has recently said. i quote. if russian officials are serious when they say they do not want a new war, russia must continue diplomatic engagement and pullback military forces.

diplomacy is only responsible. let's judge by actions, not by riddles and semantic puzzles. thank you for your attention. >> i think the representative for ukraine. i give the floor to the representative of belarus. >> thank you, madam president. on the -- resolving any conflict by force. we have made significant efforts to settle the conflict in ukraine. our country is still prepared to do everything possible to restore dialogue and mutual understanding in the region. there is no alternative to the agreement playing a key role in a peaceful settlement of the crisis. the negotiation process as part

of the trilateral group, and the practical implementation of the agreement will enable the peace process in ukraine to get on a sustainable, positive track. the u.s. delegation proposing today's topic is yet another attempt to artificially whip up tension in the region. they in no way help to solve disagreements. despite the concerns expressed frequently by representatives by the republic of belarus, the expansion of military powers on our western and southern borders not only -- is becoming

threatening and nature despite our consistent calls for dialogue. in fact, even more pressure is being exerted in our country by individual countries. our proposals to return to negotiations are not being responded to by western partners. i would like to draw your attention to the fact that here we heard a reference to the budapest memorandum. i urge you to read that document regarding the republic of belarus, and i would droid your attention to the promises in that document not to exert any economic measures on belarus, and to remember the numerous packages of economic sanctions. that have been imposed against us.

isn't the current -- belarus and russia have taken the decision to conduct joint activities to assess the preparedness of the armed forces of the two states, to provide military security, given the commitment of our military and political alliance. as part of these agreements, a decision has been reached to conduct a verification of the responsiveness of our forces of our alliance. in an aim of this verification of the military forces. to develop joint measures to eradicate a threat. it includes calls by the migration crisis and need to stabilize the situation,

organizing defense and protection of strategically important to szilagyi's to curb and board off external acts of aggression and to combat terrorism and protect the interests of our state alliance. at the final stage of these activities, there will be a joint belarusian and russian exercises with an allied resolve. during the drills, there will be joint drills carried out for specific purposes. we note that these options is something that has been regularly developed during joint exercises. they are always defensive in nature, and they pose no threat from european partners or

neighboring countries. for the republic of belarus, it is continuing to uphold all of its obligations under international and regional treaties on arms control. all information is fully available on the official site of the republic of belarus defense ministry. just a few days ago, the president responding to questions stated that war is only possible into circumstances. if there is an attack on belarus, or if there is an attack on our ally, the russian federation. responding to different insinuations against belarus, we would like to remind you that belarus is prepared to provide

all necessary assistance to settle the conflict in you are in. this includes setting up all necessary conditions for the work of the trilateral group, and for negotiations in any possible format. today, many people in the world are talking about the need to have a broad dialogue on issues of international security. this was put forward by the president of belarus some years ago, and this idea has not yet been implemented. the republic of belarus once a swift settlement of the regional crisis, purely on the basis of dialogue and mutual respect. thank you. >> i thank the representative of belarus. >> madam president, poland is

grateful for today's meeting. we are increasingly concerned with the russian buildup. continue deployments of troops, repositioning of hardware. we cannot keep quiet. what happening constitutes a serious threat reaching far beyond our region and continent. the current situation follows a pattern of precedents.

this is undermining the stability and regional security of this part of the world. madam president, we cannot keep wyatt because what is happening in our neighborhood constitutes an outright violation of the fundamental principles of the u.n. charter. the principles of international law, we call on all member states to act. we know well from our history from the political order based on spheres of influence brings no positive results. it is here in the united nations where it is our duty to protect the principles of international law and work together.

what is at stake today is not only the subordination of ukraine and creation of a so-called buffer zone, the real threat is to shake the very foundation of the security in europe by undermining such tenants of international law and freedom to choose one's own security arrangements. unfortunately, this may have a global impact and continue the deterioration of international security, not to mention the possible humanitarian crisis. there are other powers that may follow. madam president, poland believes in the power of diplomacy. we stand open. we could provide the right

venue. we call for constructive engagement of all participating states in order to find a peaceful solution to the current crisis. let there be no doubt that the current status quo is not a solution. living in constant fear of another conflict is against the commitment of these united nations. with the winter olympics less than a week away, let us do whatever we can to maintain olympic peace in eastern europe. i thank you. >> i think the representative of poland and i give the floor to the representative of lithuania. >> madam president, let me thank you for convening this meeting on such an important issue. i'm delivering to statement on behalf of the baltic state the

thornier -- lithuania. let me reiterate our support for ukraine sovereignty. we strongly condemn the clear violation by acts of aggression. we want to recognize and continue to condemn -- we remain concerned over the increasing militarization, deterioration of the human rights situation. let me add in this context. we welcome the establishment launched at the summit. we invite other members to join

as well. madam president, the conflict in ukraine has claimed 14,000 lives, displaced 1.5 million persons that has resulted in suffering on both sides. we reiterate our full support. despite all international efforts until now, we see little progress towards a resolution of this conflict. we condemn russia's continued aggressive actions and threats against ukraine and call on russia to de-escalate the situation and abide by international law. we call on russia.

madam president, despite all diplomatic efforts, russian troops are deployed in belarus. this adds up to the current escalation and is of direct concern to us. it is russia who is threatening ukraine and other neighbors by positioning 100,000 troops. it is the aggressor strengthening its security at the expense of others. actions -- russia has contributed to a significant deterioration of the security environment in europe. we reaffirm full commitment to the core principles of

international security enshrined in the u.n. charter, founding documents. this includes territorial integrity of states and viability of frontiers. the evaluation by russia as an obstacle and threatens stability. times of limited sovereignty are long gone. states have freedom to choose or change their own security arrangements. no country has a veto right over the sovereign choices area madam president, in response to the recent tensions, any further military aggression against ukraine will have massive

consequences and severe costs, including measures to be coordinated globally. adam president, we call on russia to respect principles of the u.n. charter. it is our duty as members of the u.s. to defend the international system. violation of fundamental principles will have consequences for other parts of the world. >> i think the representative of lithuania. there are no more names inscribed on the list. the meeting is adjourned. >> the nominees to be director and deputy director of the office of management and budget will appear before the senate budget committee later today. you can see that hearing set for:30 -- 2:30 eastern live on our website c-span.org.

>> coming up later today, a hearing on funding expanding broadband internet access and the bipartisan infrastructure bill. commerce secretary gina row mannedo will testify before the senate broepgss subcommittee -- appropriations subcommittee. watch live coverage at 2:30 eastern on c-span3, c-span.org or you can watch full coverage on our video app c-span now.