SC: Maintenance of peace and security of Ukraine

Joint Nordic statement (N5) delivered by Deputy Permanent Representative Ambassador Andreas Løvold in the Security Council

President,

I have the honour to speak on behalf of the five Nordic countries: Denmark, Finland, Iceland, Sweden - and my own country, Norway.

Thank you President and to Panama for convening this emergency meeting. Let me also thank ASG JenĨa for his valuable briefing and Her Excellency Ms. Svyrydenko, Prime Minister of Ukraine, for being here today and for her powerful remarks.

On 28 August, another deadly flow of Russian attacks hit civilians in Ukraine. More than 20 people were killed in their homes, including children. Hundreds of missiles and drones fired, damaging also the offices of the EU Mission and the British Council.

We echo the Secretary General’s and council members’ principled condemnation of these attacks. Once again, Russia has demonstrated its complete disregard for civilian lives – and also: diplomatic missions. The aim is clear – to spread terror and undermine efforts to end the war. Our response is even stronger support for Ukraine.

President,

Russia’s war of aggression against Ukraine remains a blatant violation of international law. We commend all member states who stand up for Ukraine and its sovereignty and territorial integrity. International law is universal –  it must be respected by everyone  – at all times.

We expect all members of this Council and of the UN to reaffirm a core principle of the UN Charter: that international borders must not be changed by force.

Since the annexation of Crimea in 2014, Russia’s strategic aim of subjugating Ukraine has remained unchanged. The list of unfolding horrors in Ukraine, many of which may amount to war crimes, are causing immense human suffering.

Russia must end its war. It must end its meaningless bloodshed.

President,

A ceasefire is the necessary first step. Ukraine has been ready for a ceasefire for several months, only Russia stands in the way. Peace in Ukraine cannot be negotiated without Ukraine’s participation. Security guarantees will be needed. The people of Ukraine need a comprehensive, just and lasting peace in accordance with international law, not a pause for Russia to prepare for renewed aggression.

The Nordic countries are ready to play an active role in combining the efforts of the Coalition of the Willing with those of the US to ensure the strength of these security guarantees. There must be no limitations on Ukraine’s armed forces or on its cooperation with third countries. Ukraine is the only one who can decide which alliances it seeks.

It has been said before in this Chamber, but it needs to be repeated: The situation for Ukrainians living under Russian occupation is alarming. Their human rights are violated. Deported and forcibly transferred children must come home safely. Thousands of illegally detained civilians should be released immediately. We demand that Russia complies with international humanitarian law, and allows full, safe, rapid and unimpeded humanitarian access in the occupied territories.

President,

Russia’s war against Ukraine, and its continued hybrid activities against Europe must come to an end. Now. We, the Nordics, will continue to scale up our military and civilian support to Ukraine. In close collaboration with the US, EU and partners across the world.

As long as Russia continues its war of aggression, we – together with partners and allies – will continue to increase the pressure on Russia’s war economy.

Thank you.