09.12.2025 Statement by Denmark at the UNSC Briefing on Ukraine
Checked Against Delivery
Thank you, Madam President,
Let me also thank the briefers for sharing their insights.
Before addressing the latest wave of Russian attacks on Ukraine, as described by our briefers, let me first reaffirm several fundamental principles that we believe must define a viable path to peace in Ukraine.
First, Denmark calls for an immediate ceasefire. It is the only credible first step towards a comprehensive, just and lasting peace in Ukraine in line with international law, including the UN Charter. A ceasefire could allow for much needed trust building between the parties while lending hope for an urgently needed break from war for the civilian population.
Second, Ukraine needs credible and robust security guarantees. Ukrainians must be able to live in confidence that the nightmare they are currently enduring will not repeat itself.
Third, nothing about Ukraine without Ukraine. This peace has to be driven for and with Ukraine. And of course, the region also has to be involved. When European security is on the table, Europe has to be at the table.
Denmark appreciates the efforts of the United States to bring peace to Ukraine and fully supports all efforts to reach a peace agreement in Ukraine based on these principles.
Principles that uphold Ukraine’s independence, sovereignty and territorial integrity, as enshrined in the UN Charter.
It is often claimed in this Chamber that Europe is prolonging the war by supporting the defence of Ukraine. That is not the case. We support Ukraine because its people are dying at the hands of their much larger neighbour’s aspiration to change borders with brute force.
For the sake of Ukraine, and for the sake of European and international peace and security, we cannot allow Russia to benefit from such deplorable actions.
Madam President,
Turning to the developments on the ground, our briefers have been clear. Russia’s attacks have continued unchecked and unabated. At this critical moment, the international community must stand with Ukraine.
The country has entered its fourth winter since the launch of Russia’s full-scale invasion.
With months of freezing temperatures ahead, Russia is intensifying its attacks against civilians and civilian infrastructure. Such attacks are a clear violation of international humanitarian law. As we have heard this morning, Russian bombs keep falling over cities and civilian infrastructure, destroying access to electricity, heating and clean drinking water.
While the world calls for peace, Ukraine is experiencing massive air strikes and power outages for hours on end, every single day.
Last week, the UN General Assembly adopted a resolution condemning Russia’s illegal abduction of Ukrainian children in the temporarily occupied territories. We reaffirm that condemnation today.
It was a relief to learn that seven children were recently reunited with their families in Ukraine. We stress that all children must be reunited with their families immediately and without conditions. Children should never be subject to such inhumane treatment, nor should they be used as political bargaining chips. We call for all perpetrators to be held accountable.
Madam President,
Russia’s actions leave us in no doubt that it is not serious about peace. While Ukraine agreed to a ceasefire long ago, Russia continues to dismiss any such calls and persistently reiterates unacceptable demands. Just last week, President Putin confirmed that Russia will seize the Donbas region by any means. Let us be clear. Russia is seeking the capitulation of Ukraine.
Madam President, in closing,
The Ukrainian people have suffered too much for too long. They deserve to return to their homes and to rebuild their lives and their country in peace and prosperity.
Denmark remains steadfast in our support to this objective.
I thank you.