Adedeji Ebo, Deputy to the High Representative for Disarmament Affairs, emphasized that such prevention is vital for the security and stability not only of Ukraine but also of the broader region.
Ebo informed the Council that information regarding the transfer of weapons systems and ammunition to Ukraine is available from open sources, and these transfers have continued since the Council's previous meeting on the topic.
He expressed concerns about the significant influx of arms and ammunition into any armed conflict, emphasizing the need for measures to address the risk of diversion. These measures include conducting pre-transfer risk assessments, implementing end-user certification, and conducting post-shipment verifications.
Ebo highlighted the importance of the United Nations Register of Conventional Arms as a valuable tool for tracking the flow of weapons into conflict zones.
He also pointed out that states have established various arms-control instruments to prevent arms diversion and regulate international arms trade. He urged states to join relevant treaties and fulfill their obligations under the existing instruments.
However, beyond addressing arms transfers, Ebo emphasized that all parties involved in the conflict have a responsibility to protect civilians.
He called for an immediate halt to attacks on civilians and infrastructure and appealed to all member states to exert their utmost efforts for peace. (ILKHA)