WE live in times of geopolitical upheaval. 2023 was overshadowed by the conflict in the Middle East, with a tragic humanitarian impact, unbearable loss of life and dangerous potential for even further escalation.
Crises and wars in other parts of the world continue, with the death toll rising every day. These include the terrible consequences of the military coup in Myanmar, as well as the unprovoked and brutal invasion of Ukraine by Russia.
Two years have passed since Ukraine found itself under attack. Hundreds of thousands of people have died, millions have been displaced, children abducted and cities devastated. Ukraine's struggle against the Russian war of aggression has emerged as the pivotal battleground for Europe's security.
This illegal and neo-colonial war, waged against a sovereign nation, sets, if successful, a dangerous precedent for the international community, for all of us.
It undermines the fundamental principles of sovereignty, independence and territorial integrity that form the bedrock of global order and stability. Russia, a permanent member of the United Nations Security Council, is contravening its solemn duty to preserve international order.
Malaysia, in solidarity with the broader international community, has unequivocally supported Ukraine's sovereignty, and it endorsed three United Nations General Assembly resolutions demanding the withdrawal of Russian forces from Ukrainian territory.
The conflict's ripple effects are keenly felt by Malaysia, a maritime nation with deep trading traditions. Food prices continue to increase. Disrupted global supply chains and volatile energy markets, stemming from Russian blockades and military actions, underscore the urgency of defending international law and order, enshrined in the UN Charter.
Russia's actions are in stark defiance of its international obligations. It flouts treaties and agreements with impunity. Since its illegal annexation of Crimea, Russia has systematically violated nearly 400 international agreements, eroding trust and undermining the very institutions designed to uphold global peace and security.
Russia's war against Ukraine is also an information war.
Justifying or denying atrocities, normalising annexations, and shifting the blame for worldwide inflation, food, energy and environmental crises caused by the invasion to countries that support Ukraine are just some elements of Russia's war propaganda and disinformation toolbox.
We daily respond to this disinformation campaign.
The European Union has extended substantial support to Ukraine in humanitarian, financial, economic and military domains, underscoring its commitment to standing by that country in its time of need.
Initiatives like the Solidarity Lanes and the Black Sea Corridor have not only helped to stabilise food prices but also provided vital assistance to those in need.
At the same time, when we call out Russia's war of aggression and imperialism, we are also working very hard to find a solution to the catastrophic situation in Gaza and to re-establish a genuine political horizon towards the two-state solution.
Ukraine's resilience and bravery are a true inspiration. We, the EU, alongside our international partners, will continue supporting Ukraine in its struggle for freedom and independence until peace is restored and the aggressor is brought to justice.
Together, we will stand firm against aggression and uphold the values of peace, democracy, and sovereignty.
As we commemorate two years of Ukrainian resistance, let us reaffirm our commitment to a world where justice prevails and where the courage of nations like Ukraine is celebrated and honoured.
This article is by the ambassador of the European Union to Malaysia and the ambassadors of Austria, Belgium, Croatia, Czechia, Finland, France, Germany, Ireland, Italy, Netherlands, Poland, Romania, Spain and Sweden