20.11.2025 Statement by Denmark at the UNSC Briefing on Ukraine

Checked Against Delivery

Thank you, Mr. President,

Let me also thank Ms Gotoh and Ms Wosornu for their very clear briefings.

Denmark welcomes the participation of Ukraine in today’s briefing, as well as other affected European countries. The broader regional security situation remains alarming. Denmark is deeply concerned by Monday’s explosion on a railway line in Poland. This was an act of sabotage directed against the security of the Polish state and its citizens. Denmark stands in full solidarity with Poland.

Mr. President,

It is almost two months since the Council last discussed Ukraine. Regrettably, Russia’s attacks on Ukraine’s population and civilian infrastructure have continued unabated, as we have clearly heard from our briefers.

Ukraine again witnessed a deadly mass attack on its cities yesterday, with over 500 drones and missiles fired in a single night. At least 25 civilians were killed, and 66 injured, when their residential block, their home, was hit. We condemn this attack, as we do all attacks against Ukraine’s civilians, and express our sincere condolences to the victims.

The recent increase in attacks on Ukraine’s civilian energy infrastructure is deeply cynical, especially in light of the approaching winter. Deliberately denying the civilian population the means to keep warm, to cook, to light up their homes and access clean drinking water represents a flagrant violation of international humanitarian law.

Another troubling development is the attacks on electricity substations and transmission lines connected to nuclear power plants in Ukraine. This recklessly threatens the safe operation of civilian nuclear energy facilities.

As we prepare to mark the 40th anniversary of the Chornobyl accident, we recall that this fallout did not respect national borders and impacted hundreds of thousands of square kilometres. We call for an immediate halt to these attacks that could lead to another nuclear accident with disastrous consequences.

Mr. President,

The deadly strike on a kindergarten in Kharkiv on the 22nd of October stands as a symbol of Russia’s disregard for civilian lives. One person was killed, nine were wounded and it was only through the bravery of Ukraine’s first responders that 48 young children trapped in the burning building were saved. Unbelievably, that was not the only Russian attack on Ukraine’s children that same week: on the 29th of October Russian artillery shelled the Kherson’s children’s hospital, injuring nine civilians, including four children.

Russia’s illegal war of aggression is having a terrible impact on Ukraine’s children, including the thousands forcibly transferred and deported by the Russian authorities. International monitors and humanitarian organizations need to verify their situation, safeguard their rights, and secure their swift return to Ukraine. It is our duty to act. To defend the fundamental rights of those too young to raise their own voices.

On the human rights situation in the temporarily occupied territories, we recall the Independent International Commission of Inquiry’s latest report. It documents serious crimes against humanity committed by Russia’s armed forces. These independent findings of the most severe violations of international law demand decisive action.

Mr. President,

Months ago, Ukraine offered an unconditional and comprehensive ceasefire. This genuine offer still stands. Russia, on the contrary, has only offered empty promises while continuing to attack Ukraine’s civilian population. We call on Russia to accept the offer of a ceasefire, without delay.

Denmark welcomes conversations about peace for Ukraine. Peace talks that can lead to a comprehensive, just and lasting peace. A lasting peace is, however, only possible if it is based on the principles of the UN Charter. In full respect of Ukraine’s sovereignty, territorial integrity, and political independence.

What is needed is a peace where Ukrainians can live in security. A peace with credible security guarantees to ensure this war cannot restart in the near future. A peace that does not reward the aggressor, leaving other countries constantly wondering if they will be next.

Mr. President,

Let me conclude by reiterating Denmark’s steadfast support to Ukraine and by reaffirming our fundamental position: Nothing about Ukraine without Ukraine. Nothing about European security without Europe.

Millions of Ukrainian men, women and children have suffered more than enough for far too long. They deserve a comprehensive, just and lasting peace. A ceasefire remains the indispensable first step on this path.

I thank you.