- A ceasefire is critical to avert the possible use of nuclear weapons and an escalation of the war
- A ceasefire will enable negotiations for a security solution, to address the needs of all parties
- A ceasefire will help provide a pathway to peace for the people of the region
The Independent and Peaceful Australia Network (IPAN) urges the Australian government to call for an immediate ceasefire by all parties in Ukraine and to urge this course of action upon its alliance partners. Ordinary people of Ukraine and Russia did not start this war, but are bearing the full brunt of the devastation. They want peace, security and sovereignty for their countries.
A ceasefire must be followed by a conference to determine a security solution which needs to address the genuine needs of all parties. United Nations involvement will be imperative in order to supervise the ceasefire and convene the conference.
These measures are even more urgent following the announcement of escalation by Russia’s President Putin. It is critical to avert any use of nuclear weapons. None of the parties involved in this conflict (US, NATO and Russia) have ruled out using nuclear weapons”, stated Bevan Ramsden, IPAN spokesperson.
China and India have recognized the seriousness of the situation and called for a “ceasefire and negotiations for a security outcome which addresses the needs of all parties”. Furthermore, the Governments of Mexico, Brazil, Ghana and the United Arab Emirates have expressed concern that UN Security Council deliberations have, so far, not provided constructive support for diplomatic action towards peaceful settlement of this conflict.
“IPAN calls on the Australia government to demonstrate commitment to a diplomatic solution to this, and future conflicts, by advocating for a third country to act as mediator to de-escalate this dispute”, stated Mr. Ramsden
“To this end, the provision of war materiel by the Australian Government to the Ukraine must cease. Supplying weapons for war is only adding fuel to the fire and increasing the misery and suffering which this war entails, for both people of Ukraine and Russia.”
With Foreign Minister Penny Wong currently at the UN New York Headquarters, an opportune moment is available to work with all of countries who want to see this war end.
A statement “A Public Call for Peace”, signed by over 900 individuals and 85 organisations, will be published in the Weekend Australian tomorrow 24th September.
Media Interviews: Bevan Ramsden 0418 697 528;
Media Co-ordinator: Kathryn Kelly 0417 269 984 |
