Russia as the aggressor must not be appeased - Baltic parliament speakers

TALLINN - In a joint declaration published on Tuesday, the speakers of the parliaments of Latvia, Estonia and Lithuania reaffirmed their steadfast and unwavering commitment to Ukraine's sovereignty, independence, and territorial integrity.

Saeima Speaker Daiga Mierina, Riigikogu President Lauri Hussar, and Seimas Speaker Saulius Skvernelis underline that any agreement reached at the talks in Alaska this week or thereafter must unequivocally uphold Ukraine's sovereignty, territorial integrity, constitution and the principles enshrined in the UN Charter.

"It is crucial that Russia does not benefit from its brutal and illegal war of aggression through territorial gains. As the aggressor, Russia must not be appeased, as doing so would only embolden further acts of aggression. The use of force to alter international borders is unacceptable and against international law," the speakers write in their joint declaration.

The speakers of the Baltic parliaments believe that a diplomatic solution must ensure the security interests of both Ukraine and Europe.

"Decisions concerning Ukraine must involve Ukrainians themselves, and matters affecting Europe must involve us Europeans. Negotiations can only be held in context of a ceasefire," they state.

"We firmly believe that only a strategy combining determined diplomacy, unwavering support for Ukraine and sustained pressure on the Russian Federation to end its illegal war can bring success. Therefore, it is vital for our countries - and the democratic world at large - to continue providing political, economic, military, and humanitarian assistance to Ukraine, while maintaining and strengthening sanctions against the Russian Federation," the joint declaration says.