The provision of weapons and logistical support to Ukraine and the jus ad bellum

Abstract

ABSTRACT This editorial considers the support currently being supplied to Ukraine following Russia’s ongoing full-scale invasion, which began in February 2022. Western states have provided significant aid to Ukraine in the form, inter alia, of modern weapons and training. This editorial asks whether that support is in itself a use of force in prima facie violation of Article 2(4) of the UN Charter and customary international law. A related question that is also considered is whether NATO member states (and others) are currently exercising the right of collective self-defence in relation to their support for Ukraine.