The seven leading democratic economic powers have strongly condemned the recent Russian rocket attacks on Ukraine and pledged further military support to the Ukrainian armed forces. After a video conference with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy, the G7 leaders issued a joint statement recalling that “indiscriminate attacks on innocent civilians constituted a war crime”. “We will hold President Putin and those responsible to account,” it said, referring to the Kremlin chief.
In the statement, the G7 also condemned Russia’s “illegally attempted annexation” of four Ukrainian regions. The heads of state and government reiterated that they would never recognize this annexation. They again called on Russia to cease all hostilities and unconditionally withdraw its troops and military hardware.
Further sanctions are to be imposed
The G7 threatened Russia with further sanctions against individuals and institutions inside and outside the country that politically or economically supported the war of aggression. In the statement, they condemned “premeditated Russian escalation moves,” including the partial mobilization of reservists and “irresponsible nuclear rhetoric that is jeopardizing world peace and security.” Any use of chemical, biological or nuclear weapons by Russia would have serious consequences, they warned.
The G7 promised Ukrainian President Zelenskyy further financial, humanitarian and military aid. They will “stand firmly on the side of Ukraine for as long as it is necessary”.
In addition to Germany, the “Group of Seven” includes the USA, France, Great Britain, Italy, Canada and Japan. Chancellor Olaf Scholz (SPD) is in the chair this year.