— Issues a call for global unity
As Ukraine marks 1,000 days since the onset of Russia’s full-scale invasion on November 19, 2024, the Embassy of Ukraine in Dakar, Senegal, has issued a somber but resolute statement underscoring the immense sacrifices made by Ukrainians in defense of their sovereignty. The statement reflects on the global ramifications of this war, reiterates Ukraine’s commitment to a just resolution, and acknowledges Liberia’s unwavering support in the international arena.
Impact of Russia’s war on Ukraine
According to the embassy, the conflict has inflicted devastating consequences on Ukraine’s people, economy, and infrastructure. Over 11 million Ukrainians have been forced to flee their homes, with 4.6 million internally displaced and 6.7 million seeking refuge abroad. This migration represents the largest displacement in Europe since World War II. Ukrainian law enforcement agencies have documented approximately 150,000 war crimes, including attacks on civilians, extrajudicial executions, and sexual violence.
On the economic front, 30% of Ukraine’s agricultural capacity has been destroyed, with grain production plummeting by 29% and cultivated land shrinking by 2.8 million hectares. Energy infrastructure has been a primary target, with over 1,000 attacks on civilian energy facilities, leaving a third of hydroelectric capacity and 90% of thermal generation facilities destroyed.
Liberia’s support for Ukraine
Liberia has consistently demonstrated solidarity with Ukraine, co-sponsoring key resolutions at the United Nations and actively participating in initiatives such as the Crimea Platform and the Global Peace Summit. The Embassy expressed gratitude for Liberia’s principled stance, stating that “Liberia’s position reflects not only the understanding between Kyiv and Monrovia but also the shared values of justice and sovereignty cherished by Liberians and Ukrainians alike.”
The Ukrainian Ambassador to Liberia, H.E. Yurii Pyvovarov, articulated the stark moral dimensions of the war, emphasizing, “What is the Russian war in Ukraine if we strip away political rhetoric? It is a crime. There is a criminal—Russia—and a victim—Ukraine. This is undeniable. And then everyone must choose: to help the criminal or to save the victim.”
A global call for unity
The Embassy highlighted the broader implications of the war, including threats to food security, violations of international law, and the erosion of the rule-based global order. It criticized misconceptions in some African countries that the conflict is merely a “Russian-Ukrainian dispute,” noting a gradual shift in understanding across the continent.
Ukraine remains steadfast in its pursuit of peace through its 10-point Peace Formula, as presented by President Volodymyr Zelenskyy. “No country wants peace more than Ukraine,” the statement emphasized, rejecting any settlement that would compromise its sovereignty or territorial integrity.
On this milestone day, the Embassy called on the global community to recognize Ukraine’s struggle as a fight not only for its survival but also for the principles of freedom and justice worldwide. “The Ukrainian people today inspire nations around the globe with their bravery, unity, and invincibility, facing the horror of war that most nations are familiar with and that only the strongest can withstand.”
As the war continues to shape the global geopolitical landscape, Liberia’s unwavering support underscores its commitment to international peace and justice, standing firmly on the right side of history.
