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.
Norway again wants to underscore that Russia’s war in and of itself is a violation of international law.
When our Prime Minister recently visited Ukraine, he saw with his own eyes how brutal Russia’s warfare is: harming and killing civilians, destroying civilian infrastructure, and forcing millions, including children, to flee their homes.
We continue to witness attacks against civilians by Russian forces. On Monday, deadly Russian missiles hit Kharkiv in an attack on a shopping center and civilian residences. Six civilians were killed.
On Saturday, Russian missiles hit residential buildings in Chasiv Yar in the Donetsk region. At least 46 people were killed. On that same day Russian troops shelled residential areas of Kryvyi Rih, killing at least one civilian and wounding several more.
Russia’s urban warfare and intensified missile attacks against civilian infrastructure are causing immense civilian suffering, inflicting a terrible, cumulative harm on the civilian population. We as participating states will continue to work for accountability for these crimes, as for instance by using the Moscow mechanism.
We reiterate our demand that Russia fulfill its obligation under international humanitarian law, which requires that the civilian population must be protected, and that all necessary measures be taken to avoid civilian casualties.
In Ukraine, the best way to protect civilians is simple: it is for Russia to end its war of aggression. We reiterate our call for Russia to stop its illegal attack on Ukraine immediately and withdraw its forces.
Norway reiterates its full support for the people of Ukraine, and its unwavering support for Ukraine’s sovereignty and territorial integrity within its internationally recognized borders.
Thank you.