Former navy commander, Admiral of the Fleet Wasantha Karannagoda has expressed his deep concern over the unjust sanctions recently imposed on him and fellow officers, including General Jagath Jayasuriya and General Shavendra Silva, by the United Kingdom.
Issuing a statement, he said the sanctions are a political maneuver rather than a measure grounded in justice.
Reflecting on his decades of service to Sri Lanka, Karannagoda highlighted his role in combating the LTTE during the country’s brutal war against terrorism, and firmly condemns what he sees as selective targeting and international hypocrisy.
Highlighting the double standards in how the international community addresses human rights issues, he questioned whether these actions are truly about justice or political influence.
Reiterating his unwavering commitment to Sri Lanka, he stressed that no foreign sanctions or internal betrayals will alter his dedication to the nation’s security and sovereignty.
The statement by Admiral Karranagoda said;
“For decades, I have served Sri Lanka with unwavering dedication, committed to protecting our sovereignty and ensuring the safety of our people. I have stood firm in the face of challenges—whether on the battlefield, in matters of national security, or in defending our country against external interference. However, today, I find myself facing unjust sanctions imposed by the United Kingdom, alongside General Jagath Jayasuriya general, Shavendra de Silva. These sanctions are not about justice but are a direct result of international political maneuvering.
It was War Against Terrorism: A Fight for Survival
Sri Lanka did not seek war, but we had no choice when terrorism threatened to dismantle our nation. The LTTE, one of the most ruthless terrorist organizations in the world, carried out massacres, assassinations, and suicide bombings, terrorizing innocent civilians for decades. While the international community remained passive, it was the Sri Lankan Armed Forces that made the difficult decision to put an end to this brutality.
I take pride in the role I played as Commander of the Sri Lanka Navy, ensuring that the LTTE’s international supply routes were destroyed. Without weapons, ammunition, and external support, their ability to continue fighting was significantly weakened. The decisive actions of the Navy, alongside the Army and Air Force, led to the eventual defeat of terrorism and the restoration of peace in Sri Lanka.
Selective Targeting and International Hypocrisy
These sanctions are not based on any transparent investigation or legal proceedings. Instead, they reflect the selective application of international pressure, targeting those who played key roles in Sri Lanka’s military victory. The same foreign entities that now impose restrictions did nothing while Sri Lanka was under siege by terrorists. They ignored the atrocities committed by the LTTE, but now demand accountability from those who risked their lives to end a war that claimed thousands of innocent lives.
This double standard raises a critical question: Is this truly about human rights, or is it about political influence?
Sri Lanka’s challenges did not end with the defeat of terrorism. There have been numerous internal and external attempts to destabilize the country, often with foreign involvement. As someone who has always prioritized the security of this nation, I am well aware of the forces that have worked against our national interests. These include individuals who have misused their positions of power, collaborated with external actors, and sought to manipulate political outcomes for personal gain.
The events of May 9, 2022, serve as a stark reminder of how internal betrayal and foreign interference can converge to create chaos. If not for the swift and decisive actions of the Sri Lanka Navy and Air Force that night, the country’s leadership and future would have been drastically altered. While others plotted, it was the dedication of our military personnel that prevented a complete breakdown of order.
Despite these challenges, I remain committed to Sri Lanka. I have always placed my country above personal ambition, and I will continue to do so. No foreign government, no politically motivated sanction, and no internal betrayal can change my unwavering belief in this nation’s strength.
The people of Sri Lanka know the truth. They lived through the war, they witnessed the sacrifices made, and they understand who truly stood for the country in its time of need. These sanctions will not define my legacy or the legacy of those who genuinely defended this nation.
Sri Lanka has overcome greater challenges before, and we will do so again. As a nation, we must remain vigilant, united, and steadfast against all forces—both foreign and domestic—that seek to weaken us.”
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