Adedeji Ebo informed the Security Council on the subject Western arms shipments to Ukraineconvened by permanent member Russia – the fourth time it has been brought up for discussion amid the ongoing conflict.
The deputy high representative for disarmament said it was no secret about the transfer of weapons systems and ammunition from Western governments supporting Kiev, including main battle tanks, warplanes, missile systems and helicopters.
Weapons also for Russia
“There have also been reports of states transferring or planning to transfer weapons such as unmanned combat aircraft and ammunition. to the Russian armed forces for deployment in Ukraine,” he added.
He said any “large-scale influx of arms and ammunition” onto a battlefield is “raises concerns for peace, security and stabilityalso as a result of distraction.”
He said that action to address the issue of arms falling into the hands of third parties or “unauthorized users” is essential to prevent further instability in Ukraine.
The UN Register of Conventional Arms (UNROCA) Is “an indispensable tool in that regard,” he added, for those countries that have nothing to hide. In the 30 years of its existence, some 178 UNROCA member states have submitted a report at least once, he said, calling on all countries to participate for reasons of trust and transparency.
He urged states to consider acceding to all other related treaties and to honor their legal obligations and political commitments.
The protection of the civilian population outweighs the armament issues
“Beyond handling arms transfers“All parties to the conflict have a duty to protect civilians in armed conflicts and to ensure compliance with applicable international law, particularly humanitarian law,” he told the ambassadors.
In this regard, the latest figures from the UN Human Rights Office show that almost 24,000 people have died since the Russian invasion began, although the actual number is likely much higher.
Suffering, loss, repression, destruction
“After almost 15 months of the Russian Federation’s military offensive in Ukraine, Suffering, loss, displacement and destruction continue to be part of an unbearable routine‘ said Mr Ebo.
“In addition to the thousands of civilians killed and injured, the destruction is essential.” critical infrastructure and services is particularly alarming. Homes, schools, roads and bridges were destroyed and damaged,” he continued.
“Attacks on energy infrastructure have disrupted electricity, heating, drinking water supply and sewage systems, as well as mobile and internet communications. Hospitals and health facilities were attacked, killing and injuring medical workers and disruption of essential services. Explosive remnants of war have led to widespread land pollution, rendering the land unsuitable for agriculture while impeding people’s freedom of movement.”
Stand up for civilians in war
He said clearly that attacks on civilians and civilian infrastructure “must stop” and took the opportunity to urge all countries to support and “implement effectively” the attacks. Political declaration to strengthen the protection of civilians from the humanitarian consequences of using explosive weapons in populated areasadopted in November 2022.
The Deputy Disarmament Commissioner concluded by repeating that the invasion of Russia was a disaster Violation of international law, including the UN Charter“which is causing massive suffering and devastation to Ukraine and her people.”
“The world cannot afford for this war to continue. I appeal to all member states to make every effort for peace. The United Nations stands ready to support any serious effort to that end.”
