He warns that existing international support may be less firm.
Broad international solidarity in condemning Russia's aggression against Ukraine requires constant diplomatic work and careful clarification due to manipulation and misinformation by Russia. This was stated by EU High Representative for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy Josep Borrell at a joint meeting of the European Parliament's Committee on Foreign Affairs, Subcommittees on Human Rights and Security and Defense, Ukrinform reports.
“We are working on widespread international condemnation and isolation of Russia. We had significant support during the vote on the second UN General Assembly resolution last week – 140 countries voted in favor and only four supported Russia. But you have to be careful. We should not be so sure that this broad international support is solid as a rock and can last forever, “Borrell said.
According to the EU High Representative, who has just returned from a trip to the Persian Gulf, he was convinced that such a solidarity vote during the UN General Assembly cannot be taken for granted, as each country has its own interests, history, colonial memories and sometimes romantic attitude. The “anti-colonial” role that Russia once played for her.
“They have a lot of tactical considerations, what their interests are and what they can expect from Russia. Therefore, issues such as Russia's aggression against Ukraine, its rapprochement with China, the position of India and North Africa – all this requires a lot of attention from us, “said Borrel.
The EU High Representative noted that all other conflicts – in the Middle East, Syria, Iraq, Yemen, as well as food security – will be very high on the agenda. According to him, this “will force many countries to take into account, first of all, national interests, and secondly – to adapt to the new geopolitical environment, where they see a return to international relations of the principles of combating the poles of power.”
He stressed that he “clearly and loudly” convinced his partners that the Russian invasion of Ukraine was an attack on international humanitarian norms, which was committed not only against Ukrainians, not only against Europeans, but also against the entire international community, which is threatened by real danger. However, this position requires development and constant protection due to the very powerful campaign of disinformation and information manipulation conducted by the Russian Federation to spread its influence.
“They're still talking about the crucified boy,” let it never be. They say that these sanctions pose a food crisis and danger, although these food security difficulties were created by the war unleashed by Russia, not by the sanctions against it. When people face problems, they look for the culprits. We need to look very closely at what is happening in our immediate neighborhood and counter anti-European narratives. In this context, I think, firstly, about the Balkans, and secondly, about Africa, “Borrel said.
At the same time, he said, “the facts remain the facts: Putin continues to commit murders in Ukraine.”
“We support the investigation launched by the International Criminal Court. We will support the Office of the Prosecutor (MIA) in all matters related to the investigation of war crimes and crimes against humanity. And we will continue to fight disinformation and develop the necessary tools, “the EU High Representative added.
Earlier, UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres took the initiative to conclude a “humanitarian truce” between Ukraine and Russia .
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