We condemn the war of aggression and the associated breach of international law on the part of the Russian and Belarusian governments. We fully support the sanctions imposed by the German government and its international partners. Many of our employees and we ourselves are affected by the events, sometimes directly because families or friends live in attacked areas; others have work relationships or personal ties to Ukraine or Russia. People from around 60 nations, including Ukraine and Russia, have been working together at the GFZ as excellent colleagues for many years. Our people and our collaborative projects aim to solve pressing challenges for humanity: safety from natural hazards, preparedness for climate change, resources for a sustainable future, work that advances peace and stability.

Research depends on international exchange and peaceful cooperation. The Russian government has ordered the invasion of a neighboring country and engulfed Ukraine in war. People have to flee because of this, people die. Free exchange is no longer possible. Therefore, we cannot continue to work on joint projects with Russian partners as before. We will immediately stop all cooperation with Russian state agencies and cancel discussion formats. Our hope is that in future it will be possible to work again with our colleagues in Russia.

We stand in solidarity with the people in Ukraine and call for solidarity and support for the Ukrainian people.