MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Ukraine’s resilience remains nothing short of extraordinary: UK Statement to the OSCE

Thank you, Mr Chair. As we approach the fourth year of Russia’s illegal war of aggression, Ukraine’s resilience remains nothing short of extraordinary. Despite immense challenges, Ukraine continues to demonstrate an unbreakable spirit and an unyielding commitment to its sovereignty, freedom, and the rules-based international order.

Last week at the FSC, the Russian Delegation stated that they owned ‘the strategic initiative along the entire line of contact’. But Ukrainian forces continue to hold their ground, not only defending their homeland but also reclaiming and securing additional territory, including in Kursk. Russian open sources report the Russian VDV 11th Airborne brigade commander has been relieved of duty following his failure to stop this recent Ukrainian counterattack. DPRK Troops deployed to the frontlines in December 2024, were withdrawn from their positions to recuperate following heavy losses. As of mid-January 2025, DPRK forces had highly likely sustained c4,000 casualties, more than one third of the 11,000 troops deployed to Kursk. Far from maintaining the ‘strategic initiative’, Russia has to resort to recklessly deploying DPRK troops to the front line, showing a complete disregard for human life, whilst not even officially acknowledging their presence on the battlefield.

There is no evidence of a Russian willingness to compromise. Russia spoke of being ‘open to reasonable initiatives to achieve a peaceful resolution’. But when examining the options available, Moscow has chosen a path of aggression, regardless of the catastrophic loss of life on both sides. There is no sense of reason. This is not a ‘special military operation’. It is a full-scale invasion and occupation attempt, a blatant violation of international law, and a direct challenge to global stability.

No one desires peace more than Ukraine. The Ukrainian people have suffered relentless bombardment and forced displacement, and we see the UN reports of war crimes committed by Russian forces. Yet peace must be just and sustainable. A truly just and lasting peace means one that respects the UN Charter and the Helsinki Final Act. Ukraine cannot be expected to surrender its sovereignty or accept a dictated settlement that rewards Russian aggression. The Russian delegation in this forum said there will be no ‘freeze along the line of contact’. We would agree. Russia must withdraw from all of Ukraine’s sovereign territory. Any peace that fails to hold Russia accountable will only invite further aggression – not just against Ukraine, but against other nations that dare to assert their independence.

President Putin’s war is built on a demand for total submission through violence. No sovereign nation could or should, accept such terms. The international community has a moral and strategic obligation to stand with Ukraine. Our commitment to Ukraine remains absolute. We will continue to confront Russian aggression through military, economic, and diplomatic means. We will hold President Putin and his regime accountable for their war crimes. We will ensure that Ukraine has the resources necessary to defend itself for as long as it takes. Ukraine’s courage and determination have already defied expectations. It is our responsibility to ensure that they do not stand alone. Thank you, Mr Chair.