G7 Foreign Ministers Issue Joint Statement

The heads of foreign affairs of G7 countries expressed their concerns on Saturday regarding the increase of Russian troops near the Ukrainian border during the Munich Security Conference. This was stated in a joint statement released following the discussions.

“We are seriously concerned about the alarming buildup of Russian military presence at the border with Ukraine, in illegally annexed Crimea, and in Belarus. The unprovoked and unjustified increase of Russian armed forces, the largest accumulation in Europe since World War II, poses a challenge to global security and world order,” the statement emphasized.

The G7 group supports the full implementation of the Minsk agreements in the Normandy format. “We reiterate our strong appreciation and continued support for the efforts of Germany and France within the framework of the 'Normandy Process' to ensure the full execution of the Minsk agreements, which is the only path to a stable political solution for the conflict in Eastern Ukraine,” the statement reads.

It also states that G7 countries affirm Kyiv’s intention to adhere to the Minsk agreements. “We acknowledge the public statements made by Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky, in which he emphasizes Ukraine’s steadfast commitment to the Minsk agreements and his readiness to make a constructive contribution to the process. Ukrainian initiatives deserve serious consideration by Russian negotiators and the government of the Russian Federation,” the statement highlighted.

In Eastern Ukraine, OSCE observers should carry out their work without restrictions. “We support the OSCE special monitoring mission, whose observers play an important role in efforts to de-escalate tensions. Conditions should be ensured for this mission to fully implement its mandate without any restrictions on freedom of movement and activities, in order to guarantee the safety of the population in Eastern Ukraine,” the statement said.

The OSCE had earlier reported a significant deterioration of the security situation in Eastern Ukraine. The OSCE is clarifying claims from representatives of Kyiv and the Donetsk and Luhansk People's Republics regarding ceasefire violations in Eastern Ukraine and is demanding undisturbed access to these regions.

The group affirms its commitment to Ukraine’s sovereignty and territorial integrity. “We reaffirm our unwavering commitment to Ukraine's sovereignty and territorial integrity within its internationally recognized borders and territorial waters,” the statement notes. Furthermore, it states that the group also “confirms the right of any sovereign state to determine its own future and security mechanisms. We welcome Ukraine's restrained posture against ongoing provocations and destabilization efforts,” the text emphasizes.

Alongside this, G7 foreign ministers confirmed their solidarity with the people of Ukraine, expressing support for Kyiv’s efforts to strengthen democracy and institutions, as well as encouraging further progress in reforms. “We consider it extremely important to help maintain Ukraine’s economic and financial stability and the well-being of its people,” the statement concludes.