Joint Nordic Statement: Briefing of the Security Council on Ukraine
Statement by State Secretary Mr. Pasi Rajala,
Vice-Minister for Foreign Affairs of Finland
on behalf of the Nordic countries
Briefing of the Security Council on Ukraine
24 February, 2025
President,
I have the honor to address the Council on behalf of the Nordic countries: Denmark, Iceland, Norway, Sweden and my own country, Finland.
The United Nations was built on the shared understanding that no effort should be spared in pursuit of peace.
Yet today we mark the third anniversary of arguably the most egregious violation of the UN Charter since its adoption; Russia’s full-scale invasion of Ukraine.
Russia’s aggression against Ukraine affects us all.
It has brought about growing economic instability and soaring food prices in countries far from the battlefields. It has required attention and resources, that could have otherwise been used to support people in need elsewhere.
Most critically, it has undermined our system of collective security, enshrined in the UN Charter.
Russia is trying to destroy and dominate a democratic neighboring country and alter borders by using force. Russia attacks international law and the fundamental principles of the territorial integrity and sovereignty of all states.
Therefore, it is existential for us all to uphold these principles enshrined in the UN Charter.
President,
Russia’s full-scale invasion of Ukraine with its brutal and relentless warfare continues to cause immeasurable human suffering. According to UNHCR, almost seven million people have become displaced in Ukraine, and 3,7 million have been forced to flee from their homeland.
Russia’s systematic attacks against Ukraine’s critical infrastructure deepen the plight of civilians every passing day. Civilians’ access to water, electricity and heating is severely limited amidst freezing winter weather.
We are appalled by the treatment of thousands of children who have been unlawfully deported or transferred by Russia. These children must be immediately returned to their families.
Russia must comply with its obligations under international humanitarian law, including by ending its attacks against civilians and civilian infrastructure, and ensuring humanitarian access. It is untenable that more than 75 years since the adoption of the Geneva Conventions, the laws of war are violated at every turn by Russia.
The Nordic countries are committed to seek full accountability for the numerous violations of international law. Russian leadership must be held accountable for the atrocity crimes committed in Ukraine, and the crime of aggression.
President,
This morning the General Assembly took a decision to support just and fair peace in Ukraine. The Nordic countries are proud to have voted in favour of both of the the important resolutions.
President,
We know Ukrainians as people who want peace. They wish to go on with their lives and keep on building their beautiful, brave nation.
We also know Ukrainians as people who love freedom. The freedom to speak their mind, elect their leaders, and choose their international alliances.
It is the duty of this Council to advance both of these goals. That Ukraine can live in peace and uphold its full sovereignty in accordance with the UN Charter.
Like all peace loving nations, Ukraine deserves peace. A peace that is comprehensive, just and lasting. Ukraine must be part of any negotiation for peace.
Russia’s aggression against Ukraine undermines not only the security in Europe, but also the stability across the world. Any solution for a lasting peace will necessitate a strong European involvement. Without it, peace runs at high risk of being short-lived. We all have a collective interest to prevent resurgence of violence and destruction, in Ukraine as well as anywhere else in the world.
President,
The Nordic countries support a search for a just peace and remain determined to continue our significant military, economic and humanitarian assistance to Ukraine.
In closing, we reaffirm our unwavering commitment to support Ukraine, as long as needed.
Thank you.