Remarks by CdA Crowley at the Ukrainian Women’s Bandura Concert
Parco della Musica Ennio Morricone
Sinopoli Hall
February 22, 2023
(As prepared for delivery)
Good evening. Thank you, State Secretary Mazzi. As a key member of NATO, the EU and the G7, Italy plays a leading role in the international coalition in support of Ukraine. I would also like to thank all our partners, particularly Canada and the UK, without whom today’s event would not have been possible.
This week marks the one-year anniversary of Russia’s brutal war against Ukraine. Attacking a neighboring country is a clear violation of international law and the UN Charter. Putin thought he could roll over Kiev and the world was too divided to react. Instead, Ukraine bravely defended itself.
More than 140 countries have condemned Russia. And the transatlantic alliance is stronger than ever.
As Vice President Harris said in Munich, Russia’s atrocities and war crimes are an attack on our common values, an attack on our common humanity.
Today’s event is a reminder that Russia’s war is also an attempt to erase Ukraine’s culture and identity. From bombing the theater in Mariupol to looting museums and libraries, Russia has sought to destroy Ukraine’s cultural heritage. Russia will also fail in this attempt. Tonight we will hear music that celebrates Ukraine’s identity and expresses hope and resilience for the future.
For the musicians and all of our Ukrainian friends, I will repeat what President Biden said in Kiev this week. “They remind us that freedom is priceless; it’s worth fighting for as long as it takes.” And the international community will stand by Ukraine for as long as it takes. Grace and Slava Ukraiini!
