Checked Against Delivery
Thank you, Madam President, and I thank the Colombian Presidency for scheduling this emergency meeting on the first day of its Presidency and wish you the best of luck for this month.
I thank Director Gotoh for her informative briefing, and we also welcome Her Excellency, the Foreign Minister Ţoiu, to this meeting.
Madam President, four days ago, in this Chamber, the Secretary-General made a direct appeal for peace in Ukraine. He warned that the recent escalatory trajectory risked spiralling out of control. And yet less than four hours later, a Russian drone packed with explosives crossed into Romania’s airspace and hit a residential building in the city of Galaţi, injuring two civilians.
Denmark condemns Russia’s dangerous and reckless actions. We express our sympathy with the injured and evacuated civilians. Denmark stands in full solidarity with Romania, our EU partner and NATO ally.
Madam President,
This drone incursion was another grave and irresponsible act by Russia as a part of its illegal war of aggression against Ukraine. While it is the first time Russian drones have injured Romanian civilians, Russia had already violated Romanian airspace on numerous occasions in the past.
In fact, with increasing frequency throughout its war against Ukraine, Russia’s drones and fighter jets have repeatedly violated sovereign airspace in Europe. Russia has continued its barrage of widespread disinformation. And as we heard less than two weeks ago in this very Chamber, it has even threatened a fellow Council Member.
These acts stand in stark contrast to the widespread calls for peace by the wider UN-membership. Russia started its illegal war against Ukraine with complete disregard for international law. Believing that it can act with impunity in Ukraine and beyond.
But Denmark and our allies will not be deterred. On the contrary; Russia’s latest acts only serve to further strengthen our unwavering commitment to our collective security alongside allies. And to continue to provide comprehensive political, financial, economic, humanitarian, civilian, military and diplomatic support to Ukraine and to its people.
In closing, Madam President,
Ukraine has been offering an immediate, unconditional and comprehensive ceasefire for well over a year now. It is clear from the developments since then who wants peace, and who is desperate to prolong the war at all cost.
The only durable end to Russia’s invasion of Ukraine is a lasting, just and comprehensive peace in line with the UN Charter. The only path to this peace starts with a comprehensive ceasefire.
Denmark reaffirms its commitment to the UN Charter and international law. Russia must end its senseless war and cease all hostilities.
I thank you.
