Madame President,
I have the pleasure to speak today on behalf of the Nordic countries: Denmark, Finland, Norway, Sweden, and my own country, Iceland.
Four and a half years into Russia‘s full-scale invasion of Ukraine, the humanitarian consequences continue to worsen. Russia‘s constant attacks on civilians and civilian objects are inflicting immense harm, while increasing drone warfare and use of ballistic missiles is creating new and profound risks for humanitarian personnel and those they seek to assist.
The situation in Kherson is a particularly stark example. The constant presence of drones has created an atmosphere of fear and uncertainty for civilians. They are attacked in markets, on roads and in other ordinary places of daily life and the toll on women and girls is profound.
These actions constitute blatant violations of international law, including the UN Charter, and directly undermine the rules-based international order that we all have a responsibility to uphold.
Madame President,
As Mr. Fletcher emphasised, the proliferation of inexpensive and increasingly capable drones is changing the nature of conflict. Medical personnel are treating growing numbers of patients with blast injuries from drones, while medical teams and operating facilities have had to move underground because of the constant threat.
What is happening in Ukraine concerns us all. The technologies being used there today could well be used elsewhere tomorrow.
Madame President,
Russia’s attacks in Ukraine have demonstrated a clear pattern of targeting civilians and those responsible must be held to account. The Nordics strongly condemn such attacks, including against civilian objects and humanitarian workers, and demand that Russia meets its obligations under international humanitarian law.
The safety of civilians is paramount and civilian infrastructure must not be targeted. Humanitarian workers and the facilities they rely on to deliver assistance must likewise be protected and allowed to carry out their vital work.
Madame President,
As we convene here today, Ukraine celebrates the 35th anniversary of its independence. In 1991, 35 years ago, the Ukrainian people voted to become a sovereign nation. It was recognized as such by the international community, including by the Russian Federation. Today. Ukraine is defending its sovereignty, territorial integrity and independence against Russia’s onslaught.
The Ukrainian people have shown remarkable resilience and it is clear that Ukraine has an inherent right to defend itself in accordance with Article 51 of the Charter.
The Nordics continue to support Ukraine‘s call for a ceasefire as the first step towards a just, lasting and sustainable peace in accordance with international law. We also urge Russia to answer this call.
Madame President,
The way forward is clear. Russia must end its aggression, withdraw its forces from Ukrainian territory, respect Ukraine‘s sovereignty and territorial integrity, and respect international law. Accountability for Russia’s crimes in and against Ukraine is essential.