I thank the UN Secretary-General and USG Rosemary DiCarlo for their important statements.
We are facing the dire prospects of a major war in Europe. Norway strongly condemns the decision by President Putin to send Russian troops into the Donetsk and Luhansk regions, and the latest announcement of special military operations. These decisions are unjustified, unprovoked and irresponsible.
We call on Russia to reverse these decisions and to immediately, completely, and unconditionally withdraw all of its military forces from the territory of Ukraine and the vicinity of its internationally recognised borders.
Our thoughts are with those who have already suffered too much due to this conflict. And with all those who are afraid that tomorrow will be a lot worse.
We call upon all parties to strictly respect the relevant provisions of international humanitarian law, which call for the protection of civilians, including humanitarian personnel, and civilian infrastructure, and to facilitate safe, rapid and unhindered humanitarian access to those in need in Ukraine.
Like the Secretary General clearly stated, the decision of the Russian Federation to recognize the so-called “independence” of Donetsk and Luhansk regions are violations of the territorial integrity and sovereignty of Ukraine and are inconsistent with the principles of the Charter of the United Nations.
Let me recall the principles and purposes of the UN Charter which are now under threat. The Charter applies to all nations - including Russia.
President,
Today in the General Assembly, member states from all over the world strongly urged the parties to pursue negotiations towards a peaceful resolution of the conflict, with respect for international law and Ukraine’s sovereignty and territorial integrity.
Norway urges Russia, as a party to the Minsk agreements and to the conflict, to fulfil its commitments, to abide by international law, and to return to the path of diplomacy. Russia has taken on a clear commitment to seek a peaceful settlement to this conflict and must honor that.
We commend Ukraine’s posture of restraint in the face of continued provocations and destabilisation efforts.
President,
Let me conclude by again reiterating Norway’s unwavering support for Ukraine’s sovereignty and territorial integrity within its internationally recognised borders.