UK Reaffirms Support for Ukraine at UN Security Council: “We Will Stand Together for As Long As It Takes”

On the 30th of October, a Russian drone targeted a railway station in Dnipro, resulting in the deaths of at least 15 civilians and injuring another 14. Shortly thereafter, on the 2nd of November, Russian bombs hit a school functioning as an aid centre in the Zaporizhzhia region, claiming the lives of at least 55 Ukrainian civilians. This incident stands as one of the deadliest attacks during the ongoing conflict.

Further escalations occurred on the 7th of November when Russian drones and missiles struck civilian energy and broader infrastructure, including a crucial northern bridge in Kyiv. The following day, an additional attack resulted in the deaths of another seven Ukrainian civilians. Over the past four months, these assaults have tragically led to the loss of over 1,540 Ukrainian civilian lives.

In light of his inability to achieve military success on the battlefield, President Putin has intensified assaults on urban areas and the civilian population of Ukraine. It is essential that, amidst the increasing frequency of these attacks, we do not forget the profound implications of each individual loss. Behind every statistic lies a loved one gone, a family shattered, and a community disrupted.

The Reality of Living in Fear

Moreover, we must not overlook the pervasive fear that permeates daily life—whether it be boarding a train, driving a car, sending children to school, or simply turning on the heating to ward off the winter chill. Since President Trump called for an energy ceasefire on the 11th of October, Russia has launched over 150 ballistic missiles targeting Ukraine, primarily aimed at energy infrastructure.

The UN Commission of Inquiry reported last month that for over four years, Russia has systematically attacked Ukraine’s energy facilities, intensifying these strikes as temperatures drop, regardless of their impact on civilian lives. The Commission has concluded that these actions amount to war crimes.

As we remain mindful of the effects of these civilian-targeted attacks, it is imperative that this Council does not allow the frequency of assaults on civilian infrastructure to become a new norm. Russia’s Ministry of Defence has made its intentions clear: “This winter,” they assert, “you will freeze.” For the past four years, President Putin has attempted to utilise the harsh winter to achieve what his missiles have failed to accomplish: breaking the resolve of the Ukrainian people. Yet each year, these efforts have faltered.

Commitment to Support

We, along with our allies, will continue to support Ukraine through the winter and for as long as it takes, as they steadfastly resist Russian aggression and strive for peace. Europe’s commitment to backing Ukraine remains unwavering.

Madam President, we have witnessed what can be achieved when there is genuine political will. The humanitarian ceasefire in Oleshky, facilitated with assistance from the United States, enabled the delivery of aid to civilians and allowed hundreds to escape dire conditions under Russian control. This is indeed commendable.

However, it should not require extraordinary measures to ensure a few days of safety for civilians. Russia is not prevailing in this war; with 54,000 Russian casualties reported last month alone, it is noteworthy that Russia has gained no territory this year. Thus, our message is clear: Russia has a choice to make. It can either continue this painful and costly conflict or opt for peace.

Ukraine desires peace. The international community desires peace. Russian aggression will ultimately not prevail.