The Romanian Embassy on Monday marked four years since the beginning of Russia’s latest attack on Ukraine, declaring that the situation must not be mischaracterized as a “Ukrainian crisis” but recognized as a clear act of aggression and an international armed conflict initiated by Russia.
In an official statement, the embassy recalled that since the illegal annexation of Crimea in 2014 and the launch of the full-scale invasion on 24 February 2022, Russia has flagrantly violated Article 2(4) of the UN Charter and fundamental principles of international law. The statement emphasized that the international community has unequivocally identified Russia as the aggressor through resolutions of the UN General Assembly, including Resolution 68/262 on Ukraine’s territorial integrity and Resolution ES-11/1 condemning the aggression.
The embassy noted that Ukraine is exercising its inherent right to self-defence under Article 51 of the UN Charter in response to Russia’s armed attack. It further highlighted grave violations of international humanitarian law resulting from the war, including the unlawful deportation and forced transfer of thousands of Ukrainian children.
Reaffirming its principled stance, Romania reiterated its consistent and unequivocal condemnation of Russia’s aggression. As a neighbouring country and a member of the European Union and NATO, Romania reaffirmed its firm support for Ukraine’s sovereignty, independence and territorial integrity within internationally recognized borders.
The statement added that Romania has provided substantial humanitarian, political and logistical assistance to Ukraine, facilitated the transit of millions of tonnes of Ukrainian grain, supported EU sanctions against Russia, and continued to advocate for accountability for war crimes and full reparations for the damage caused by the aggression.