Russia’s Ambassador to New Zealand, Georgii Viktorovich Zuev, was today summoned to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade to hear New Zealand’s “strong opposition” to escalating military action by Russian towards Ukraine.
“The Russian Ambassador is being called in today to hear New Zealand’s strong opposition to the actions taken by Russia in recent days, and condemn what looks to be the beginning of a Russian invasion into Ukraine territory,” said Minister of Foreign Affairs, Nanaia Mahuta.
“We repeat our call for Russia to act consistently with its international obligations, and return to diplomatic negotiations as a pathway to resolve this conflict.
“We have consistently expressed our strong support for Ukraine’s territorial integrity and sovereignty, and international diplomatic efforts to de-escalate the crisis to find a peaceful solution.
“A military invasion is an act of aggression, and a violation of one of the most basic tenets of international law. New Zealand is ready to take further measures,” said Ms Mahuta.
In the event of a full invasion of Ukraine, the Minister said the New Zealand Government was prepared to respond with a suite of measures in line with those of our partners, and which will send a clear message of unity against an act of Russian aggression.
These measures span the range of options available to New Zealand, including travel bans, controlled export bans and diplomatic measures, she said.
“Russia’s actions could have far-reaching and serious humanitarian, security and economic implications for the region, and globally.”
“We are very clear: any act of Russian aggression in Ukraine poses a direct threat to global peace and security, and would represent a further violation of international law,” Ms Mahuta said.
