28 February 2022
Mr. President,
Slovenia aligns itself with the statement delivered by the EU and I would like to make the following remarks in our national capacity.
The war in Ukraine continues for the fifth straight day. The situation has dramatically escalated, and Ukrainians fight courageously. Let me convey the strong support of the Slovenian Government to the Ukrainian people and its government in these difficult times. We stand in solidarity with women, men and children whose lives are being affected by this unjustified attack. In particular, we express grave concern at reports of civilian casualties, including children.
Mr. President,
Once more, Slovenia condemns, in the strongest terms the unprovoked and unjustified military aggression ordered by President Putin against Ukraine in violation of Ukraine’s independence, sovereignty, and territorial integrity. Russia’s action is unacceptable. It is a serious violation of international law and it also represents a severe violation of the UN Charter and its key principles. Article 2 is very clear: All member States shall refrain from the threat or use of force against the territorial integrity or political independence of any state. We echo the UN Secretary-General’s statement that these principles can in no way be applied selectively.
Slovenia underlines that international law, peaceful settlement of disputes and the respect of the decisions of international tribunals as well as their full implementation, are the foundation for a peaceful, prosperous and just world. The International Court of Justice, where Ukraine already filed proceedings, should have a key role as well as the International Criminal Court, where the Office of the Prosecutor just announced that the ICC Prosecutor Karim Khan has decided to proceed with opening investigation on the situation in Ukraine.
Mr. President,
Invasion of Ukraine by armed forces of the Russian Federation represents a most serious threat to the European and global security and stability. Russia’s actions are in clear breach of the OSCE Helsinki Final Act.
Slovenia also condemns the involvement of Belarus in this aggression against Ukraine and we call on Belarus to abide by its international obligations. The Constitutional referendum in Belarus yesterday which resulted in the deletion of Article 18 on Belarus’s non-nuclear status is extremely worrying.
Mr. President,
We call on the Russian Federation to engage constructively and with a view to political and diplomatic solution. We also call for an immediate, complete and unconditional stop of all fighting and withdrawal of all Russian forces from the territory of Ukraine. Moreover we call on Russia to fully respect international humanitarian law, and to allow safe and unhindered humanitarian access and assistance to all persons in need.
Mr. President,
Support to Ukraine and solidarity with its people in need in this difficult time is what is desperately needed right now. Slovenia has donated in- kind urgent assistance as well as a financial contribution through the International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC) to help war-stricken Ukraine. We stand ready to provide further assistance to the people of Ukraine. Slovenia is prepared to host and take care of refugees from Ukraine.
Let me conclude by reiterating Slovenia’s strong position that General Assembly has a responsibility to address Russia’s actions. Today’s emergency special session is a crucial and historical moment to act and hold Russia accountable and makes appropriate recommendations for collective measures which will restore peace and security.
Finally, Slovenia firmly supports the UN General Assembly Resolution on aggression against Ukraine and we urge all Member States to join us in co-sponsoring and voting YES.
We Stand with Ukraine and its people.
I thank you