UWC President in Brazil’s Senate: Peace without accountability is just a pause in war

Peace without holding Russia accountable for its crimes is not real peace — just a temporary pause in war that could invite new attacks, said Ukrainian World Congress (UWC) President Paul Grod during an online address to Brazil’s Federal Senate on Feb. 24, marking four years since Russia’s full-scale invasion of Ukraine.

“Peace without consequences for the aggressor, risks becoming an invitation to repeat aggression, not only in Ukraine, but elsewhere in the world. It sends a dangerous message to authoritarian regimes: that one can invade, destroy, commit war crimes, abduct children, and face no real cost,” Grod said. 

He stressed that achieving peace through accountability — including justice for war crimes, reparations for damages, and the return of abducted children — aligns fully with Brazil’s foreign policy principles.

“It is rooted in respect for sovereignty, multilateralism, international law, and the principles enshrined in the United Nations Charter,” UWC President said.

Grod also urged caution against normalizing relations or providing financial support to the aggressor without ensuring accountability. 

“Without responsibility or the credible prospect of punishment – aggression is not deterred — it is encouraged.”

After four years of full-scale invasion, Ukraine remains steadfast, Grod emphasized, calling on the international community to take a clear stance.

“I am confident that the Ukrainian people will endure and prevail. The question facing the international community — and Brazil — is not whether Ukraine will survive, but which side of history will you be counted — the side of the victim or of the oppressor?”

Grod expressed confidence in the support of the Brazilian people. 

“I respectfully call on Brazil to support Ukraine’s United Nations resolution demanding the immediate, safe, and unconditional return of Ukrainian children illegally abducted by Russia.”