The University of Malta Academic Staff Association (UMASA), on behalf of the Academic staff of the University of Malta, strongly condemns the invasion of Ukraine by Russia and the untold suffering this attack is bringing on the sovereign nation of Ukraine and its people. This war undermines all the hard work and sacrifices made by Europeans over the past decades – sacrifices that have enabled generations to live in relative peace for close to 80 years. 

We are further dismayed at the recent destruction of the University of Khyrkiv. As centres of learning, Universities are essential in the formation of a vital part of a country’s social fabric. Policy makers, doctors, engineers and other professionals and intellectuals of the future are currently being denied the possibility to fulfil their aspirations. By doing this, Russia is not only inflicting damage on the present but is also denying Ukraine and Ukrainians the prosperous future they deserve. It is depriving the world of the intellectuals and professionals that help it progress.

It is imperative that all aggression is ended and Ukrainian sovereignty restored in its entirety.