May 14, 2024
Thank you, Mr. President.
I thank Ms. Doughten and Ms. Howarth for their valuable briefings.
It is regrettable that we heard again today in a briefing from the UN about the many civilian casualties caused by the clear violation of the UN Charter by a permanent member of the Security Council.
Russia’s unprovoked war of aggression against Ukraine has resulted in the deaths and injuries of countless innocents, exacerbating the humanitarian crisis on the ground.
Energy-related facilities throughout Ukraine are under continuous attack. On May 8th, President Zelensky said that Kiev, Zaporizhia and other regions have been attacked with more than 50 missiles and 20 drones. The Energy Minister of Ukraine said that about 80% of thermal power plants have been damaged.
We also note that OCHA reports intensified attacks in the Kharkiv region are causing civilian casualties, widespread destruction, and displacement from front-line and border areas.
Japan is deeply distressed by Russia’s continuous disregard for international law, including international humanitarian law (IHL).
Attacks against civilians and critical civilian infrastructure are clearly prohibited by IHL. The international community will not tolerate impunity for those responsible, and perpetrators of violations of IHL and all heinous acts must be identified and held accountable.
In addition, Japan condemns in the strongest possible terms North Korea’s export and Russia’s procurement of ballistic missiles, as well as Russia’s use of these missiles against Ukraine. The transfer of these weapons, which is a clear violation of the relevant Security Council resolutions, supports Russia’s war of aggression and increases the suffering of the Ukrainian people. We continue to monitor closely what North Korea gains in return.
Mr. President,
Needless to say, a stable energy supply is foundational to people’s lives. To this end, Japan has supported the recovery and reconstruction of Ukraine’s energy infrastructure. This includes the provision of two large autotransformers, benefiting around 500,000 residents in Kiev, and the delivery of six mobile power supply vehicles to the Ukrainian Sea Ports Authority.
Additionally, Japan has supplied five advanced gas turbines and transported seven autotransformers to help prevent energy shortages and maintain critical services for over 5 million people during the challenging winter months.
Japan remains committed to supporting the Ukrainian people through bolstering the electricity and heating supplies in Ukraine.
Mr. President,
Once again, we reiterate our clear position to urge Russia to stop the aggression, and immediately and unconditionally withdraw from the internationally recognized territory of Ukraine. Japan continues to stand with the people of Ukraine and the UN Charter.
I thank you.