Thank you, Mr. Chair.
Norway aligns itself with the statement delivered by the EU, including the condemnation of Russian war of aggression against Ukraine and acts of sabotage, attacks on commercial shipping in other countries. We stand in solidarity with Romania and other affected states. Allow me to add a few remarks in my national capacity.
Mr. Chair,
As evidenced through previous statements, Russia continues its illegal military aggression against Ukraine, including attacks that cause civilian suffering and death.
On 26 October the UN Independent International Commission of Inquiry on Ukraine published its latest report. The Commission, and I quote, “has concluded that Russian authorities’ continuing attacks on Ukraine’s energy infrastructure constitute war crimes of intentionally directing attacks against civilian objects, as well as crimes against humanity of other inhumane acts through inflicting great suffering to civilians».
Secondly, the Commission found “Russian recruitment through deception of foreign nationals to fight in the armed conflict in Ukraine. This constitutes trafficking in persons and also violations of human rights”.
The Commission’s findings reinforce the concerns regarding Russia’s lack of adherence to international law raised repeatedly in this Forum.
Mr. Chair,
Ukraine is exercising its inherent right of self-defence under Article 51 of the UN Charter. In this context, Norway recalls that support of a state exercising this right is a legal and defensive action. NATO is a defensive alliance whose purpose is to safeguard the freedom and security of its Allies. NATO does not seek confrontation and poses no threat to Russia. The Alliance remains committed to the principles of international law, the UN Charter and the sovereignty of all states.
Norway will continue to stand with Ukraine in its efforts to defend its independence, sovereignty and territorial integrity.
We continue to support diplomatic efforts to end the war.
We reiterate our call on Russia to cease its attacks, withdraw its forces from the internationally recognised territory of Ukraine, and engage in genuine efforts towards a comprehensive, just and lasting peace in line with international law and the UN Charter.
Thank you.