G7 reaffirms its backing for Ukraine and denounces the escalation by Russia

Foreign ministers from the Group of Seven democracies convened on Tuesday to reaffirm their support for Ukraine and denounce what they termed Russia‘s “irresponsible and threatening nuclear rhetoric.”

They cautioned that North Korea’s backing of Russia signifies a perilous escalation of the conflict, posing significant risks to security in both Europe and the Indo-Pacific. The ministers urged China, a traditional ally of North Korea, to take action in this regard.

In a joint statement released at the conclusion of their meeting, they noted, “Russia’s deployment of an intermediate-range ballistic missile on November 21 is further proof of its reckless and provocative conduct.”

They emphasized, “Our commitment to Ukraine’s territorial integrity, sovereignty, and independence remains steadfast.”

Currently, Russia is intensifying its efforts along the frontlines in eastern Ukraine, where it has achieved some of its most significant territorial advances since 2022.

The G7 ministers expressed their intention to begin distributing funds from a $50 billion loan package derived from frozen Russian assets by the year’s end. They also committed to taking measures against entities that assist Russia in circumventing the sanctions imposed following its invasion of Ukraine nearly three years ago.

This joint statement was released after a two-day meeting held in Fiuggi, a spa town located southeast of Rome, which was attended by Ukrainian Foreign Minister Andrii Sybiha.

Ministers have intensified their efforts to persuade Israel to agree to a ceasefire arrangement with Hezbollah in Lebanon, emphasizing that “now is the time to finalize a diplomatic resolution.”

They urged the Israeli government to enable humanitarian aid for the civilian population in Gaza, the West Bank, and East Jerusalem.

The statement further expressed strong condemnation of the increasing violence by extremist settlers against Palestinians, highlighting that such actions jeopardize security and stability in the West Bank and threaten the potential for enduring peace.