Russia’s invasion of Ukraine yesterday (Feb 24) was described as “barbaric” and Europe’s “darkest hour since World War II.
In response, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MFA) issued a strongly-worded statement yesterday, condemning the invasion.
Read closely and one would understand why there was a need to be forceful and firm.
“Singapore is gravely concerned by Russia’s announcement of the start of a “special military operation” in the Donbas region; and reports of land and air attacks on multiple targets in Ukraine on 24 February 2022.
Singapore strongly condemns any unprovoked invasion of a sovereign country under any pretext.
We reiterate that the sovereignty, independence and territorial integrity of Ukraine must be respected.
We hope military actions will cease immediately; and urge a peaceful settlement of the dispute, in accordance with the UN Charter and international law.”
A global order must be upheld
Pay attention to the last sentence of MFA’s statement: it urged a peaceful settlement, in accordance with international law.
Adhering to a global order is especially important for a city-state like Singapore, whose hyper-connectivity to the world is well-established. If bigger countries with more resources do not respect international law and order and take on a might is right posture, Singapore might cease to exist.
If the tenet of international law is broken, countries like Singapore has to support it and prevent it from crumbling, for its destruction is detrimental to our survival and all the progress the world has made after World War II would be for nought.
Strong, shrewd political system needed
Having a strong Singapore Armed Forces is not enough to defend ourselves; the country needs shrewd politics to ensure Singapore remains a sovereign state.
To align with major global powers while being a friendly, concerned neighbour is an art and our founding fathers are masterful in this domain.
Former Nominated Member of Parliament Calvin Cheng posted on Facebook on Feb 25, saying what Ukraine lacked was skilled, incorruptible politicians like our founding fathers.
He wrote: “We built our economic and cultural alliances with the West, whilst acknowledging we were still part of the historical Malay cultural sphere. Malay remains our national language, and the language of military drills. Our national anthem is in Malay. Malays also have a special place in our constitution. Our geo political situation hasn’t changed.”
The Party’s experience in skilled diplomacy will ensure Singapore remains independent for the next century.
We stand in solidarity with Ukraine.
Cover photo credit: Ukraine News and OSINTtechnical Twitter.