New York, 29 July 2022
Thank you, Mr. President.
I thank Under-Secretary-General Di Carlo for her presentation and welcome all countries participating in this meeting under rules 37 and 39.
For over five months we have heard various interpretations in the context of a blurred narrative that does not justify the war in Ukraine.
My country’s position has been very clear since the beginning, in accordance with Article 2(4) of the UN Charter, which states: “All Members shall refrain in their international relations from the threat or use of force against the territorial integrity or political independence of any State”. What is happening in Ukraine is a flagrant violation of the Charter.
The lax and manipulated interpretations of the right to legitimate self-defense contained in Article 51 of the Charter, which set a dangerous precedent, are also of great concern. This is a matter that my country has systematically denounced in various contexts for many years.
In addition to the clear violation of the UN Charter and the foreign policy principles enshrined in my country’s constitution, there have been recurrent violations of international law, including the norms of international humanitarian law.
Attacks on commercial and residential areas continue and the numbers of civilian casualties is deplorable. On 14 July, an attack in Vinnytsia left more than 20 civilians killed, including several children. This was preceded by an attack of 9 July in Chasiv Yar where another 48 civilians were killed. This brings the number of verified civilian deaths to over 5,000. But the real numbers are surely much higher.
As long as hostilities continue, the priority must be the protection of civilians and humanitarian aid. The parties must observe the principles of distinction and proportionality, as well as take all necessary precautions to protect both civil population and infrastructure.
Some specific measures to be adopted as a matter of priority are: the timely distribution of accurate information and warnings, the withdrawal of the civilian population to safe places, the construction of shelters, the mobilization and access of civil defense organizations, and the non-use of weapons with indiscriminate effects in densely populated areas, to mention a few. The call we reiterate is unequivocal: international humanitarian law must be respected, without exceptions.
The humanitarian dimension of this conflict has escalated to a tragic and regrettable proportion: it is estimated that there are already about 16 million people with humanitarian needs of various kinds, many of these critical.
Mr. President,
The world has followed with the utmost attention the agreements signed in Istanbul on 22 July. Mexico recognizes the commitment and effort made by both sides, Russia and Ukraine, to reach these agreements, as well as the diligent efforts of the government of Türkiye. We commend the vision, initiative and impetus given by Secretary-General António Guterres, as well as the outstanding work of his mediation team.
Just as we welcomed Secretary General’s good offices in the Council’s presidential statement of 6 May (S/PRST/2022/3), today we express our appreciation and reiterate our support for the continuation of the delicate task of seeking new paths to advance in the pacification of the region.
However, it is regrettable that the Council was not able to welcome the Black Sea Initiative, despite its significance, as it represents the first concrete set of measures to address a global food crisis that poses a lethal threat to many regions of the planet, and to reflect that even in the midst of war, dialogue is possible.
It is indeed also very regrettable that, a few hours after the signing ceremony, Odessa was the target of missile attacks. Nevertheless, the agreements are in force and have begun to be implemented. This is a very important step forward, and its real value cannot and should not be overlooked.
The safe passage of grains, fertilizers and related products to global markets represents a lifeline for millions of people who depend on them, who suffer food insecurity, and who may face starvation.
Although Istanbul has sent us all a signal of encouragement, a complete cessation of hostilities must be the real goal. The immediate future will require genuine openness, dialogue and commitments from both parties and the international community to end this war.
Mexico reiterates its conviction that the only way to achieve this is through diplomatic channels. This implies continuing with the mediation efforts contained in the UN Charter and, therefore, we urge the Secretary General and his team to follow up on this work and the agreements reached.
I thank you, President.