Decision regarding membership of A Just Russia-Patriots-For the Truth Party

The Socialist International has been following with grave concern the position of the party A Just Russia-Patriots-For the Truth in support of the horrific war waged by Russia against Ukraine.

During the online discussions of our Presidium held on the 19th of February with leaders of our political family from different continents of the world, the fundamental commitment of the global social democratic movement to peace was clearly stated, underlining the catastrophic human cost that a war would bring, which should be avoided at all costs. The members of the Presidium reiterated their faith in the multilateral approach and the need to resolve differences through diplomatic means, working for a peaceful solution to the tensions and urging all parties to do their utmost to avoid the catastrophe of war. In the SI we have always supported the rules-based order enshrined in the Charter of the United Nations, whereby internationally recognised borders must be respected as well as the territorial integrity and sovereignty of all states.

Less than 48 hours after the meeting of the Presidium of the Socialist International, on the 21st of February, Russia chose to unilaterally recognise Donetsk and Luhansk as independent republics and sent tanks and troops to these areas of Ukraine. Subsequently, in the early hours of the 24th, with the aerial bombardment of targets across the Ukrainian territory, the Russian invasion of Ukraine began. Reacting swiftly to these deplorable actions which contravene international law, and in line with our shared principles and our dedication to preserve and ensure peace between nations and peoples, the Socialist International immediately expressed its unequivocal condemnation.

The humanitarian tragedy that has ensued is indefensible. Thousands have been killed, including children. More than one and a half million people have been forced to flee their homes, leaving family and loved ones behind. Many remain in Ukraine, forced to fight, or attempting to shelter without food or water in towns and cities whilst the bombing in civilian areas continues despite Russia saying from the outset it would not do so. Russia has allegedly used illegal weapons such as thermobaric ‘vacuum’ and cluster bombs, and it continues to hold the threat of nuclear war over Ukraine and the international community at large.

In supporting the illegitimate use of military force by Russia in Ukraine and ignoring international action in favour of peace, dialogue and understanding, A Just Russia-Patriots-For the Truth party is in violation of the Ethical Charter of the Socialist International. The declared positions adopted by the party on this issue are neither in alignment with the Declaration of Principles of the SI, which should guide the policies and actions of all our member parties.

In light of the graveness of the current situation in Ukraine and the unwillingness of the party to reassess its position in the face of the indefensible acts committed by Russian forces in that country, the Ethics Committee has made the difficult decision that the only appropriate course of action is to cease the membership of A Just Russia-Patriots-For the Truth party in the Socialist International, in accordance with the Ethical Charter. This decision has the full support of the President and the Secretary General of the Socialist International.

This global political organisation of the Socialist International stands firm in the defence of its principles and values which are shared by all those who are its members. It has always stood as a platform for peace, respect for human rights and fundamental freedoms, and we strive for a world where nations can live in peace despite our unique differences.