President,
Before I begin allow me also here to express Norway’s heartfelt condolences to the Royal Family, to the people of the UK, and the Commonwealth on the passing of Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth.
I thank the briefers for their statements.
Let me make four short points today:
First; Norway reiterates that Russia´s war on Ukraine is a serious violation of international law.
Russia must abide by the order of the International Court of Justice and immediately suspend its military operations in the territory of Ukraine.
Second; We reiterate our unwavering support for Ukraine’s sovereignty and territorial integrity within its internationally recognized borders.
Third; we call on Russia to immediately end their indiscriminate attacks. Norway unequivocally condemns all violations of international humanitarian law and international human rights law. Including the reported killings of Ukrainian civilians and strikes on civilian infrastructure.
Fourth; Ukraine has a right to defend itself against Russia´s armed attack, as enshrined in Article 51 of the UN Charter.
Other states are entitled to respond positively to Ukraine’s call for assistance in the exercise of its legitimate self-defence.
The simple fact remains: What is blatantly illegal, is Russia’s aggression against Ukraine.
Russia must fully and unconditionally withdraw its forces and military equipment from Ukraine.
Russia started the war in Ukraine. And must now choose to stop it.