On 24 February, an extraordinary meeting of the OSCE Permanent Council took place in Vienna, bringing together foreign ministers and deputy foreign ministers of participating States, as well as permanent representatives. The meeting marked four years since the start of the Russian Federation’s war of aggression against Ukraine. The Republic of Moldova was represented by State Secretary Valeriu Mija, who participated via videoconference.

In their statements, officials strongly condemned the Russian Federation’s aggression against Ukraine, in particular the attacks against civilians and infrastructure essential for the population’s survival. The importance of respect for international law, the UN Charter, and the Helsinki Principles enshrined in the 1975 OSCE Helsinki Final Act was underlined. Participants reiterated the need to bring the war to an end as soon as possible through a just and lasting peace.

Particular emphasis was placed on the need to ensure accountability for crimes committed by the aggressor, including war crimes and the crime of aggression—an essential element for strengthening peace and preventing similar atrocities in the future.

In his remarks, State Secretary Valeriu Mija reaffirmed the Republic of Moldova’s unconditional support for Ukraine and its people, who continue to resist and defend their sovereignty and independence.

“Today, we mark four years since the Russian Federation launched its war of aggression against Ukraine—a sovereign state and a member of the UN, the OSCE and the Council of Europe. This commemoration takes place against the backdrop of an ongoing humanitarian tragedy, marked by massive loss of life, widespread destruction of civilian infrastructure, and unimaginable suffering for millions of people. The international community must remain firm and principled, mindful that concessions to aggression do not bring stability; they encourage further violations and undermine long-term security,” he said.