Paula Dobriansky: World must unite to protect Western values challenged by Russia

“Through aggression in the East of Ukraine and the illegal annexation of the Crimea Western values were challenged, as well as institutions and alliances that maintain peace and stability for decades after the Second World and the Cold War. So we need to be united and have a consensus in support of these institutions and values,” – said in a video address to the participants of the 9th Kyiv Security Forum, organized by Arseniy Yatseniuk Open Ukraine Foundation, Paula Dobriansky, Under Secretary of State for Democracy and Global Affairs (2001-2009) U.S..

She recalled that German Chancellor Angela Merkel has already stated that the EU sanctions against Russia will continue till June. “And I support that. We have to work not only on the issue of the continuation of sanctions, but also look for additional sanctions because it is necessary to raise the price of aggression and ensure that the violence is stopped and territorial integrity Ukraine is respected,” – Paula Dobriansky added.

Former Under Secretary of State also emphasized that by means of their actions in the Crimea and Eastern Ukraine Russia violated the Budapest Memorandum, according to which Ukraine withdrew nuclear weapons in favor for guarantees of its sovereignty.

“This Forum takes place at crucial times when Ukraine is trying to fight on the Eastern front and at the same time it seeks to establish economic development, fight corruption, and to integrate into the European community. We need to be vigilant and help Ukraine in achieving this extremely important goal,” –Paula Dobriansky summed up.

FOR YOUR INFORMATION:

The annual international event Kyiv Security Forum launched by Arseniy Yatsenyuk Foundation Open Ukraine in 2007 is a platform for debate on the most pressing security issues in Europe and the Black Sea Region. 

Internet broadcast of the Forum:

9th Kyiv Security Forum (Ukrainian):

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=k4bx8DXN4wk

9th KYIV SECURITY FORUM (ENGLISH)

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xEG5fdmhG2g