UK Tells UN to Reject Russia's Claims Over Ukrainian Territory

The UK has urged UN member states to reject Russia's claims over Ukrainian territory, arguing that military occupation does not alter Ukraine's legal borders or sovereignty. The statement was made by Ambassador Sarah MacIntosh at the UN General Assembly.

Since Russia began its full-scale invasion of Ukraine four years ago, the conflict has led to significant humanitarian and economic consequences. At least 429 missiles struck Ukraine in July alone, more than double the previous month, resulting in almost 17,000 civilian deaths, including 820 children, and 51,000 injured since February 2022.

The UK highlighted the disruption of global agricultural trade and shipping due to Russian attacks, noting that Ukraine accounted for 12% of global corn exports, 10% of wheat exports, and 50% of sunflower oil exports before the invasion. The conflict has pushed up prices worldwide and killed seafarers from UN member states in Africa and Asia.

The UK statement calls on all states to uphold the UN Charter, reject Russia's illegal claims, press Moscow to allow humanitarian access, and support accountability efforts. It also backs Ukraine's call for a full, immediate, and unconditional ceasefire, as well as a just and lasting peace.