24.02.2026 Joint Nordic Statement at the UNGA Emergency Special Session on Ukraine

– CHECK AGAINST DELIVERY –

Thank you, Madam President,

I have the honour to speak on behalf of the five Nordic countries, Finland,

Iceland, Norway, Sweden, and my own country, Denmark.

We are here to mark the grim fourth anniversary of Russia’s full-scale invasion of

Ukraine. A war of aggression in flagrant violation of international law, including

the UN Charter. An unprovoked war that President Putin chose to wage against a

peaceful neighbour.

What the Kremlin thought would be a three-day “Special Military Operation” has

now entered day 1,461. The largest military conflict on European soil since the

Second World War. A war that the UN estimates has killed or injured at least 55,000

Ukrainian civilians, including more than 3,000 children.

While Ukraine has repeatedly called for a ceasefire, Russia has escalated its attacks.

2025 was the deadliest year of the war for Ukraine’s civilians. No one feels the

effects of this war more than the people of Ukraine. No one wants peace more

than the people of Ukraine.

Madam President,

Peace in Ukraine must be just, lasting and comprehensive. It must respect

international law, including the UN Charter. Ukraine must also have robust

security guarantees to prevent Russia from invading ever again. And Russia needs

to be held accountable for the crimes it has committed in Ukraine.

We cannot stand by as the UN Charter is violated with impunity and territory is

seized by force. To do so would only encourage further aggression and the

undermining of international peace and security. Put simply, in such a world – where we

return to an era of “might is right” – no country would be safe.

Madam President,

The Nordic countries are pleased to co-sponsor Ukraine’s resolution. It calls for

an immediate, full and unconditional ceasefire. For a comprehensive, just, and

lasting peace in line with international law including the UN Charter. And for

confidence building measures, including the complete exchange of prisoners of

war, the release of all unlawfully detained persons, and the return of all internees

and civilians forcibly transferred or deported, including thousands of children.

We are pleased that Ukraine’s resolution was adopted by the General Assembly by an overwhelming

majority. We must all continue to show our commitment to peace, international law, and the principles of

sovereignty and territorial integrity.

So let this anniversary serve not only as an opportunity to reflect but also to

recommit, collectively and forcefully, to these principles. Principles upon which we

all rely to live in peace within our internationally-recognised borders.

I thank you.