61st Session of the UN Human Rights Council
Item 10 - Interactive dialogue on the High Commissioner’s oral update on the situation of human rights in Ukraine.
Joint statement on behalf of the Nordic and Baltic States –
Denmark, Estonia, Finland, Iceland, Latvia, Lithuania, Norway and Sweden
delivered by the Minister of Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Lithuania
H.E. Mr Kęstutis Budrys
26 March 2026
Mr President,
I am delivering this statement on behalf of the Nordic-Baltic States. We thank the High Commissioner for the update.
Russia’ s illegal war of aggression against Ukraine continues to have devastating consequences for civilians. Despite efforts for a just and lasting peace, Russia shows no willingness to end its aggression and continues deliberate attacks on civilian infrastructure and energy systems. The UN reports 2025 as the deadliest year for civilians in Ukraine since 2022.
Beyond the senseless destruction, thousands of Ukrainian children have been deported or forcibly transferred, separated from their families, subjected to indoctrination and stripped of their identity and nationality.
The Commission of Inquiry reported that these systemic attempts to permanently separate Ukrainian children from Ukraine amount to crimes against humanity. We are deeply concerned by the Commission’s findings of violations during criminal proceedings, including torture, ill-treatment and sexual violence to obtain evidence against civilians and prisoners of war. These actions must not go unpunished.
Full accountability for grave violations of international law, including the UN Charter, is vital to uphold the rules-based international order.
We call on this Council to act decisively to ensure that those responsible are held to account.
I thank you.