Photo credits: Palais Princier
In a pointed address delivered at 9:45 a.m. New York time, Prince Albert II of Monaco urged the international community to recommit to a shared vision of global security amid the ongoing conflict in Ukraine. Speaking shortly after a brief meeting with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky, the prince emphasized the challenges of a multipolar world where national interests often overshadow collective ideals.
The statement, issued by the Princely Palace of Monaco, highlighted the limitations of current diplomatic efforts. "The multiplication of peacekeeping operations shows that dialogue and preventive diplomacy have unfortunately not always produced the expected results," the prince noted, underscoring the grave threats to international security posed by regional tensions and propagating conflicts.
Prince Albert reaffirmed Monaco's adherence to core principles enshrined in the United Nations Charter, including state sovereignty, the peaceful resolution of disputes, respect for international law, and human rights. He explicitly condemned the war of aggression against Ukraine and the suffering it has inflicted on civilian populations, a message he reiterated directly to President Zelensky during their encounter.
Expressing hope for a resolution, the prince voiced his wish for "a just, lasting and negotiated peace" to be achieved as soon as possible, one that would ensure security and align with the aspirations of the Ukrainian people.
This appeal comes at a time when global leaders continue to grapple with the ramifications of the Ukraine conflict, now in its protracted phase. Monaco's stance, as articulated by its sovereign, serves as a reminder of the enduring need for multilateral cooperation in an increasingly fractured international landscape.