Good morning.
This morning, Russia is once again attempting to use this Council to launder its disinformation, spread its propaganda, and justify its unprovoked and brutal attack on Ukraine.
We know this because it’s a well-worn playbook. Just one week ago, they convened the Council under precisely the same pretenses, and we heard a litany of bombastic and preposterous lies.
This meeting, and these lies, are designed for one purpose: to deflect responsibility for Russia’s war of choice and the humanitarian catastrophe it has caused.
As you all know – and as we must remind the public – it is Russia that has long maintained a biological weapons program in violation of international law -- not Ukraine.
It is Russia that has a well-documented history of using chemical weapons -- not Ukraine.
And it is Russia that started this senseless war.
So we are here today to call Russia to account. To speak the truth. And to ensure their lies and disinformation are met with fact.
It must also be said that Russia is abusing its responsibilities and privileges as a permanent member of the Security Council. Our mandate is to serve as a venue for achieving peace through diplomacy.
Russia’s subversion of our mission, and its horrific campaign of violence against the Ukrainian people, are deeply shameful. We will continue to ensure their tactics are met with a forceful chorus of voices from across the international community prepared to stand with Ukraine, and stand up for the UN Charter.
Thank you.