25 February 2025

OSCE Parliamentary Assembly Leaders Reaffirm Support for Ukraine on the Third Anniversary of Russia’s Full-Scale Invasion

On February 24, marking the third anniversary of Russia’s full-scale invasion and war of aggression against Ukraine, the President of the OSCE Parliamentary Assembly, together with members of the Bureau and Parliamentary Support Team for Ukraine, strongly condemned Russia’s blatant violation of the international rules-based order and reaffirmed Ukraine’s right to determine its future.

As highlighted during the OSCE Winter Meeting, Russia’s actions and its systematic violations of international law, including the principles of the Charter of the United Nations and the Helsinki Final Act, have resulted in irreparable consequences for millions of civilians.

“The OSCE PA continues to stand firmly with Ukraine and with the Helsinki Principles and will continue to call for full accountability and justice of Russia’s acts,” stated OSCE PA President Pia Kauma.

The OSCE PA leaders further emphasized that any diplomatic initiatives aimed at alleviating the intolerable burden on Ukraine’s civilian population must not overlook Russia’s war crimes or contribute to the legitimization of its aggression.

“Any discussions on a ceasefire or lasting peace must be aligned with international law, Ukraine’s interests, and the OSCE’s founding principles. Furthermore, ceasefire negotiations must be conducted with Ukraine at the table with no decisions about Ukraine to be made without Ukraine,” the OSCE PA representatives stated.

The OSCE leaders also reaffirmed their commitment to strengthening international support for Ukraine and enhancing its resilience. This is in line with the new strategic focus of the Parliamentary Support Team for Ukraine, led by three Special Rapporteurs.

“Strengthening Ukraine’s resilience will play a pivotal role in facilitating its recovery while also pre-empting future attacks against territorial integrity, sovereignty and stability in the broader region.It must remain a priority,” emphasized Pia Kauma.