Thank you,
Norway is aligned with the statement made by the European Union, but allow me to make a few remarks in my national capacity.
Mr. Chair,
Recent attacks in Ukraine have been a testimony to the ruthless nature of Russia’s illegal war of aggression against Ukraine. Massive swarms of missiles and kamikaze drones have hit Ukrainian cities, damaging civilian infrastructure, residential neighbourhoods, and even playgrounds.
The multiple power black outs and disruption to water supplies and communications, caused by these strikes, are a grim forewarning of what may lie ahead. The destruction of electricity and water infrastructure will have severe consequences for Ukraine’s civilian population in the longer term, particularly with winter fast approaching.
Mr. Chair,
Intentional or indiscriminate attacks on civilians and civilian infrastructure are prohibited under international humanitarian law and may constitute war crimes. What we are witnessing are attacks that are void of any military logic. Put simply, they are terror against Ukraine and the Ukrainian civilian population.
Mr. Chair,
The leadership in the Kremlin has seriously underestimated the courage and determination of the Ukrainian leadership, military, and people. Ukraine continues to exercise its right of self-defence. Every abhorrent attack from Russia strengthens the Ukrainian people’s resolve. It also strengthens the resolve of Ukraine’s friends to provide further support.
We will continue to stand with Ukraine and its people, for as long as it takes, to ensure that the sovereignty and territorial integrity of Ukraine within its internationally recognised borders are fully restored.
Thank you.