🇺🇦 My deepest condolences to the families of those killed in the relentless Russian attacks across Ukraine over the past week. My thoughts are also with the many wounded, with those who have lost their homes, and with the Ukrainian people who continue to endure this violence. The devastating attacks in Pryluky, where five children were among those killed, on passenger buses in Kramatorsk and on Ukraine's capital Kyiv are part of a much wider pattern. Residential areas, energy infrastructure and bridges have come under attack. As winter approaches, Russia is targeting the very infrastructure that allows people to work, travel, heat their homes and maintain some sense of normal life. The recent attacks on civilian vessels in the Black Sea are equally alarming, endangering seafarers from countries across the world, freedom of navigation and food supplies in some of the world's most vulnerable regions. At the same time, Russia presents itself to the Global South as a reliable partner for security, sovereignty and food security, and as a champion of the fight against neo-colonialism. Yet it continues to wage a war against an independent nation, with consequences reaching far beyond Europe's borders. Respect for sovereignty and international law cannot depend on geography or political convenience. The principles Russia invokes in its relations with the rest of the world must also apply to Ukraine. Belgium stands firmly with Ukraine and its people. We will continue supporting them and working with our partners to increase pressure on Russia, protect civilians and seek a just and lasting peace. @BelgiumMFA @BelgiumUkraine @andrii_sybiha