24 February 2025
Thank you Mr. President,
I would like to thank Under-Secretary-General Rosemary DiCarlo for her briefing and I want to welcome to the Chamber Deputy Minister of Ukraine.
Mr. President,
Three years have passed since Ukrainian people woke to a war being brutally imposed on them.
After three years of intense fighting, this war must end. Yes, Under-Secretary-General DiCarlo, it is high time for peace in Ukraine. Ceasefire must be achieved and sufficient security guaranties for Ukraine ensured. Negotiations for a just and lasting peace must be held with Ukraine and the European Union at the negotiating table.
The toll this war has taken on civilians is unbearable. Last year, the total number of civilians killed or injured was 30 % higher than the year before. This is just one of the signs of how the war expanded and became deadlier throughout the year.
In 2024, we have witnessed a number of escalations, including the active involvement of the DPRK in the war. In recent months, Russia has launched some of its largest air strikes, hitting schools, hospitals, energy infrastructure and residential buildings. WHO reported that the casualties among health workers and patients nearly tripled compared to 2023.
Under-Secretary-General DiCarlo reminded us of the drone strike in Chernobyl. As part of continuous air and drone attacks which seriously endanger the safety and security of Ukraine’s nuclear power plants. As the IAEA has been warning for years now – the situation is dire and could eventually lead to a nuclear accident. And its aftermath would be felt across the globe.
Mr. President,
Each day of the war leads to more violations of international law. In the midst of all these, we should never forget that this invasion represents a grave violation of the UN Charter and the very principles this organization is built on.
As members of this Council, we are obliged to identify avenues that will lead to a just and lasting peace in Ukraine. However, without respecting the fundamental principles of sovereignty, independence and territorial integrity, there cannot be such peace.
Mr. President,
Slovenia will actively support all meaningful efforts towards peace. We will also continue to support Ukraine in any way possible, until a peace deal that brings a just, lasting and comprehensive peace and security to Ukraine and entire Europe is reached.
Thank you.