A European capital has stepped forward with a diplomatic proposal that could bring wartime negotiations and broader security questions into the same room.
Austria has offered to host talks in Vienna on ending the war in Ukraine and discuss the future architecture of European security.
As reported by the online media outlet Ukrinform.
This was stated during the UN General Assembly’s general debate on the situation in Ukraine’s territories temporarily occupied by Russia by Stefan Prätterhofer, Austria’s chargé d’affaires and deputy permanent representative to the UN.
Austria is ready to offer its good offices and host talks in Vienna both on the war in Ukraine and on the broader issue of the architecture of European security.
– Stefan Prätterhofer
According to the diplomat, the UN and the Organization for Security and Co-operation in Europe, whose headquarters are located in Vienna, could help monitor compliance with a ceasefire or the implementation of a broader peace agreement.
Austria called for a full and unconditional ceasefire
Austria’s representative emphasized that ending the hostilities should be the first step toward negotiations between the parties and the achievement of a just, lasting, and comprehensive peace.
Austria calls for a full, immediate, and unconditional ceasefire. This should pave the way for negotiations between the parties on a just, lasting, and comprehensive peace based on the UN Charter and international law.
– Stefan Prätterhofer
The Austrian side also stressed the importance of upholding international law and respecting state sovereignty. Stefan Prätterhofer stated that the unlawful occupation of territories and violations of a state’s sovereignty cannot be legitimate means of achieving political goals.
The diplomat separately called for the return of unlawfully transferred and deported civilians, including children. He also advocated granting international observers access to Ukraine’s temporarily occupied territories.
The war in Ukraine has global consequences
Austria’s representative also drew attention to the war’s impact beyond Europe. Attacks on Black Sea ports and commercial vessels are complicating the export of Ukrainian agricultural products and may lead to higher global food prices.
These consequences are felt most acutely by states with the fewest resources to address food and economic challenges. Austria believes that diplomatic efforts, a ceasefire, and compliance with international law should form the basis for the further peace process.