G7 aid to Ukraine will never run out. And it supports “humanitarian pauses and corridors” in Gaza

At the start of the session led by Japanese Foreign Minister Yoko Kamikawa, who chaired the group’s meeting, it was stressed that given the rising tensions in the Middle East, it was important for the G7 countries to send a unified signal to the international community of their support for Ukraine. Ukrinform agency reported.

Minister Kamikawa also emphasized that Japan will continue to expand sanctions against Russia and mentioned Tokyo’s initiatives to support the reconstruction of Ukraine. One such initiative is a $7.6 billion aid package and a planned Japan-Ukraine conference on the reconstruction of Ukraine early next year.

In the statement of the G7 group regarding the Ukrainian war, the countries further emphasize their firm commitment to support Ukraine in its efforts to preserve its independence, sovereignty and territorial integrity.

In addition, they call on China to refrain from aiding Russia in its conflict with Ukraine and urge Russia to end its military aggression and promote a just and lasting peace in Ukraine. The statement also welcomes China’s participation in the Ukraine-led peace process.

Ukrainian Foreign Minister Dmytro Kuleba participated in the G7 meeting via video conference.

Japanese Foreign Minister Yoko Kamikawa stressed the importance of the G7’s united stance and strong support for Ukraine, especially as the conflict continues for nearly three years and the country faces the threat of Russian attacks on its energy sector during the winter.

Last year’s Russian strikes on energy facilities caused major problems, including heat and electricity shortages for thousands of people during freezing temperatures. “It is clear that at this time some parties around the world are watching closely how we will continue to support Ukraine,” said former German Foreign Minister Annalena Baerbock.

Israel’s war with Hamas will not affect Ukraine’s support

“We emphasize the need for urgent action to address the worsening humanitarian crisis in Gaza… We support humanitarian pauses and corridors to facilitate urgently needed aid, the movement of civilians and the release of hostages,” the joint statement said.

The ministers also “underscore Israel’s right to defend itself and its people in accordance with international law as it seeks to prevent a recurrence” of the October 7 Hamas terror attacks on Israel.

The Israeli army has continued to bombard Gaza intensively since October 7, when the attack by Palestinian militants led by Hamas began. Israeli authorities say that this attack claimed the lives of approximately 1,400 people in Israel, mostly civilians.

According to the Hamas-run Ministry of Health, the death toll in Gaza has exceeded 10,300 (information cannot be verified).

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu announced on Monday that he would not release any fuel to Gaza and accept no ceasefire until more than 240 hostages held by Hamas are freed. He also emphasized that after the end of the conflict, Israel will take over “overall security” in Gaza and until then allow “tactical breaks” to free prisoners and provide humanitarian aid to the besieged territory.

However, on Tuesday, Washington announced that it opposes the permanent occupation of Gaza by Israel.