We, the members of the Presidium of the European Confederation of Independent Trade Unions (CESI), strongly and firmly condemn the Russian unprovoked attack on Ukraine; an aggression which cannot be justified by any means.

We express our full solidarity with and support of the Ukrainian people and nation. Today, our thoughts are with all those in the frontline: the Ukrainian soldiers who protect their borders, the men, the women, and, of course, the children.

The attack is an unprecedented breach of international laws and treaties. It violates the basic principles of the UN Charter, and it tramples on the most fundamental principle inherent to the diligent exercise of leadership: the preservation of peace.

The Russian Government decided to return to the darkest times of our history. More than 70 years after the European Convention on Human Rights has been opened for signature – also signed and ratified by the Russian Federation-, the tragedies of the past may unfold again.

We call upon the EU leadership, united today in Brussels, not to shy away from taking clear and unequivocal decisions. Decisions that demonstrate that we are willing to defend the values that are the essence of our liberalism: peace, freedom, democracy, security, justice, solidarity, rule of law, human dignity, and mutual respect.

Because this attack is not only directed against Ukraine. It is also directed against us.