Russia’s veto does not change the facts: Great Britain’s statement at the UN Security Council vote condemning illegal referendums in Ukraine

President, once again Russia has abused the veto to protect its illegal actions.

Council members voted differently. But one thing is clear. No other member of this Council recognizes Russia’s attempts to illegally annex Ukrainian territory. Russia’s veto does not change that.

Today’s statement by President Putin on the accession of the Ukrainian Kherson, Zaporozhye, Luhansk and Donetsk regions to the Russian Federation has no legal force. This is fantastic.

The Russian invasion must be stopped. The world made it clear in 7 months. Nevertheless, Russia’s response was further escalation, further mobilization, nuclear threats, and today another callous attack on a civilian convoy in Zaporozhye.

The sovereignty and territorial integrity of Ukraine is under attack. The international system is under attack before our eyes. Russia will not succeed in this illegal imperialist war. The only question is how much damage they do, how many lives they waste before they know it.

Ambassador Barbara Woodward’s explanation of vote before the UN Security Council vote on illegal referendums in Russia

Colleagues, Russian annexations further endanger the prospects of peace and fundamentally undermine the goals and principles of the UN.

The territory claimed by Russia is more than 90,000 square kilometers. It is the largest forcible annexation since World War II.

There is no middle ground in this. At the end of the day, this is a very simple matter of principle, as the Secretary-General said.

As members of the Security Council responsible for maintaining international peace and security and upholding the UN Charter, we must condemn Russia’s actions and vote in favor of this resolution.