Nordic Statement on Russia’s Missile Attack on Ukraine on 8 July 2024

As delivered by H.E. Helga Hauksdóttir, Ambassador and Permanent Representative of Iceland, at the 1481st Special OSCE Permanent Council Meeting, Vienna, 9 July 2024

Thank you, Madame Chair,

I deliver this statement on behalf of the Nordic countries, Denmark, Finland, Norway, Sweden, and my own country, Iceland.

As we have done many times in this council, The Nordic countries reiterate that Russia’s illegal and brutal war of aggression against Ukraine is a flagrant violation of international law, including the UN Charter, as well as the principles and commitments of the Helsinki Final Act and the Charter of Paris.

The staggering number of civilians affected by Russia’s war of aggression is alarming and unacceptable. For over two years, there have been indiscriminate attacks affecting Ukrainian civilians, and we have seen countless instances of attacks directed at schools, hospitals, and critical infrastructure. We condemn all violations of international law, including international humanitarian law and human rights law in the strongest possible terms.

The Russian Federation’s attacks yesterday, including on the Okhmatdyt Children’s Hospital in Kyiv, demonstrate a high level of cruelty. The brutality displayed by the Russian armed forces, and their disregard for international law and human life, is appalling.

We unequivocally condemn these barbaric attacks and call on the Russian Federation to immediately cease its targeting of civilians and civilian infrastructure, to put an end to this war of aggression by withdrawing fully and unconditionally from Ukraine, and adhere to its obligations under international law.

Madame Chair,

The Nordic countries will continue to stand with Ukraine for as long as it takes, providing substantial humanitarian, financial, legal, and military support to help Ukraine defend itself and push back against Russia’s aggression. We remain committed, alongside our Allies and partners, to assist in the recovery and reconstruction of Ukraine, on its path towards EU and NATO membership.

Ensuring accountability for all crimes committed in connection with Russia’s war of aggression remains paramount for achieving the just and lasting peace that Ukraine deserves. We will continue to do everything within our power to hold Russia fully accountable for all war crimes and other violations of international law.

I thank you, Madame Chair.