Checked Against Delivery
Thank you, Madam President,
And I would like to welcome you Madame Minister, presiding over this meeting. And thank you Minister for Latvia’s steadfast commitment to Ukraine.
Let me also thank Assistant Secretary General Yahya and Director Gotoh for their informative briefings.
Madam President,
We remain deeply concerned by Russia’s continued attacks on Ukrainian civilians, particularly in light of the recent wave of attacks. This past week alone, Russia has launched more than 115 missiles, nearly 1900 aerial bombs, and more than 3,000 attack drones against cities and communities. And I would like to draw attention to two recent strikes, both also highlighted by Director Gotoh.
On 29 October, a railway station was hit by a Russian jet powered drone. At least 15 civilians were killed and 14 others injured, including a child. The victims were ordinary Ukrainians waiting to board a commuter train.
On 2 November, a village was attacked with bombs hitting a school where civilians had gathered to collect humanitarian aid. This was followed by secondary strikes on air raid shelters where the survivors sought refuge. At least 53 civilians are reported killed, with dozens still missing.
Madam President,
These attacks are another stark reminder of the devastating consequences of the war in Ukraine, unilaterally launched by Russia in violation of international law, including the principles of the UN Charter. UNICEF recently highlighted that child casualties are at an all-time high with 2026 already becoming the deadliest year for Ukrainian children since the full-scale invasion began. Moreover, as it has been the pattern the last four winters, Russia is intensifying its attacks on energy infrastructure just as winter kicks in. Weaponizing winter and increasing the suffering of the already besieged Ukrainian population in the coldest and harshest time of year.
Denmark reiterates that all civilians are protected under international humanitarian law. And that all such attacks must be halted immediately.
Madam President,
Denmark also remains deeply concerned about the deteriorating humanitarian situation in Ukraine, which is expected to worsen further as we approach the winter months.
As we heard from Assistant Secretary General Yahya, the continued strikes on Ukraine’s energy infrastructure are putting millions at risk, threatening their access not only to heating, but also to electricity and clean drinking water. Basic services that we all take for granted.
We recall that civilian objects must be protected in accordance with international humanitarian law. In all circumstances. Without exception. An immediate ceasefire is an essential precondition to protect civilians and stop humanitarian suffering.
Attacks in the Black Sea have also continued, with implications for regional stability, maritime security and global grain supplies. It is with this in mind that Denmark once again calls for a double moratorium: on attacks against energy and other civilian infrastructure; and on hostilities in the Black Sea.
The recent local ceasefire in Oleshky, secured with the involvement of the US First Lady, has provided much-needed relief to civilians in Oleshky and those who have been evacuated.
This truce can be an important confidence-building step and a reminder that local ceasefires can work, and that progress towards peace is possible. We call on Russia to demonstrate its willingness to take further steps to this end, as Ukraine has already done. Russia has the opportunity to do so later this week in Abu Dhabi.
Madam President,
Russia must engage seriously and in good faith towards a full, immediate and unconditional ceasefire. A ceasefire that would be in the interest of its own people and give much deserved relief to the people of Ukraine. There is no alternative to a just and lasting peace, firmly rooted in international law, and based on the UN charter. Ukraine’s sovereignty and territorial integrity within its internationally recognized borders must be respected.
We call on the international community to increase pressure on Russia to this end. And we call on Russia to match Ukraine’s desire for peace, and to end the immense suffering caused by this senseless war.
Thank you.
