US Warns of 'Disgraceful' Violation of Ukraine's Sovereignty by Russia

On Monday, December 5, the US Ambassador to the United Nations warned Russia that the seizure of three Ukrainian ships is a 'disgraceful violation of Ukraine's territorial integrity.' She urged Russia to reduce tensions stemming from this 'arrogant' act. Nikki Haley stated that she had discussed this matter earlier that day with President Donald Trump and Secretary of State Mike Pompeo, and her remarks reflect 'the concerns of the highest levels of the US government.' She added, 'As President Trump has repeatedly said, the US welcomes normal relations with Russia. But illegal actions like this make such relations impossible.' Russian special naval units seized two small armed vessels and a Ukrainian tugboat, claiming they illegally entered Russian maritime territory. In contrast, the Ukrainian government asserts that these vessels did nothing illegal and accused Russia of military aggression. Nikki Haley further stated that the US will continue its sanctions against Russia due to the annexation of Crimea. Engaging in such aggressive actions will complicate the situation further, weaken Russia's international standing, and damage Russia's relations with the US and many other countries. Dmitry Polyanskiy, the Deputy Ambassador of Russia to the UN, accused Ukraine of orchestrating this incident, claiming it was motivated by the declining popularity of the Ukrainian president ahead of the upcoming presidential elections. He stated in a Security Council meeting, 'How can he maintain his position in such a situation? It is clear that only through provocative actions, blaming Russia, and trying to increase his popularity as the savior of the country.' He added that the goal of such actions is to cancel the presidential elections in Ukraine, despite Poroshenko's promise that they would definitely take place. Polyanskiy warned that Russia 'never strikes first but knows well how to defend itself.' Rosemary DiCarlo, the UN political affairs chief, stated in the Security Council meeting that it cannot be independently confirmed how this incident occurred, but she noted that the only result is the worsening of the crisis and tensions surrounding Ukraine. She added, 'We strongly urge Ukraine and Russia to refrain from hostile actions and statements and to resolve this dispute as quickly as possible to prevent escalation and its potential consequences.'