February 24, 2023
No. 054
On February 24, 2022, Russia launched a full-scale invasion of Ukraine, triggering the largest armed conflict in Europe since World War II and displacing millions of Ukrainians. In attacking another country, Russia disregarded worldwide condemnation and sanctions, violated the United Nations Charter, and ignored the rules-based international order. This has gravely undermined regional and global peace and stability. The Republic of China (Taiwan) joins peace-loving democratic partners around the world in condemning Russia’s actions.
As a responsible member of the international democratic community, Taiwan staunchly defends the universal values of democracy, freedom, the rule of law, and human rights, and opposes any form of military intimidation. Today, on the first anniversary of Russia’s invasion of Ukraine, the Taiwan government reiterates its opposition to the use of force or coercion to unilaterally change the status quo. It encourages all parties to reconcile their differences in a peaceful and rational way through communication and negotiation under the framework of international law. Furthermore, it calls on Russia to immediately halt its military invasion of Ukraine and respect Ukraine’s sovereignty, independence, and territorial integrity. The Taiwan government will continue to stand with the international community in imposing related sanctions against Russia until the war ends.
The people and government of Taiwan have consistently worked in a spirit of justice and solidarity with like-minded partners to resolutely demonstrate that Taiwan can help. Since the war broke out, Taiwan’s people and government have donated a total of 27 tons of medical supplies and over 700 tons of humanitarian relief. The aid from Taiwan was quickly delivered through Poland, Slovakia, and other neighboring countries to Ukrainians striving to protect their homes amid the war. In addition, Taiwan has donated more than US$41 million for efforts made in coordination with neighboring countries—including Poland, the Czech Republic, Slovakia, and Lithuania—and international organizations to jointly resettle Ukrainian refugees. It has also directly assisted the cities of Kyiv and Bucha as well as the frontline cities of Kharkiv, Mykolaiv, and Kherson. Funds have supported hospital, church, humanitarian, and winter relief programs to help Ukrainians get through the war and the harsh winter.
To assist with the reconstruction of Ukraine, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MOFA) has earmarked NT$1.8 billion (approximately US$56 million) in its 2023 budget for civil infrastructure projects. MOFA plans to engage in joint efforts to rebuild hospitals, schools, churches, power facilities, water supplies, bridges, and transportation through bilateral and multilateral avenues.
Taiwan will continue to work in close cooperation with the United States, European countries, and other like-minded nations to free Ukraine from the scourge of war, restore peace and prosperity to the country, and jointly uphold regional and global peace and stability. (E)