Thank you,
Norway has aligned itself with the statement delivered on behalf of the European Union and fully subscribes to its content. In my national capacity, though, I would like to make the following remarks:
Mr. Chair,
Russia’s war of aggression against Ukraine constitutes a blatant violation of the sovereignty and territorial integrity of Ukraine. It clearly demonstrates Russia’s disregard for international law, including the core principles and commitments of the OSCE. It shows Russia’s absolute disregard for human life and the suffering of millions of people in the wake of the illegal war.
The massive attacks on civilians and civilian infrastructure, including the provision of water, heat, and electricity, have a devastating impact. Thousands of civilians have been killed, millions have fled their homes. With winter approaching, the number of casualties and displaced persons will accelerate. Children, the elderly and other highly vulnerable people are particularly at risk.
New deliberate and destructive missile attacks were launched against Ukraine yesterday. What we witness is pure evil. It is evil of a dimension and scale which we hoped, and thought was relegated to the trash heap of history. To reiterate what was said by our distinguished colleague from the European Union: It is indeed despicable that Russia is seemingly taking revenge for its military losses through constant violations of international human rights and humanitarian law and ruthlessly attacking civilians and civilian infrastructure.
We reiterate our demand that all civilians must be protected, and that international humanitarian law and international human rights law must be fully respected and implemented. We urge Russia to immediately cease its unlawful and senseless aggression, and call for safe, rapid, and unimpeded access for humanitarian organizations to people in need.
Mr. Chair,
Let me end by again reiterating that Norway condemns Russia’s war of choice in the strongest terms possible. Russia must abide by the order of the International Court of Justice and immediately suspend its military operations in the territory of Ukraine.
No territorial acquisition resulting from use of force will be recognized as lawful. Furthermore, no Russian claim to annex territory can take away Ukraine’s right to defend its own land.
Russia chose to start this war. It must now choose to stop it.
Thank you.