Statement by the Republic of Slovenia at the UNSC meeting on the maintenance of peace and security of Ukraine

Thank you, Mr. President.

I wish to thank Ms. Gotoh and Ms. Wosornu for their briefings and their contribution to the discussion.

Mr. President,

We are now deep into the fourth year of Russia’s aggression against Ukraine. The largest armed conflict Europe has seen since World War II. A conflict that has changed modern warfare. Felt first and foremost by the civilians who bear the brunt of it.

The latest overnight attack by Russia is a case in point. In one of the deadliest attacks against civilians since the war began, Russian missiles and drones reportedly killed at least twenty-six people in Ternopil. Slovenia condemns this attack in the strongest possible terms.

With the winter approaching, Russia launched another campaign against Ukraine’s energy infrastructure. Strikes on the power grid are intensifying, causing blackouts nationwide. These attacks disrupt heat, electricity and water supply, creating extreme hardship, especially for older persons, persons with disabilities and families with young children. These are deliberate attacks against the most vulnerable members of society.

There is a clear pattern in Russia’s drone warfare – no one is safe from attacks. Not near the frontline, not hundreds of kilometers away. Russia’s drones and missiles are the cause of more than half civilian casualties across Ukraine. Especially short range drones surpassed the impact of any other weapon type. They are killing and injuring civilians, striking homes and disrupting essential services. They are creating a coercive environment that has essentially become unlivable and has compelled thousands to flee.

The Independent International Commission of Inquiry in its latest report concluded that these attacks constitute crimes against humanity of murder and forcible transfer of population.

Mr. President,

Russia is escalating its war against Ukraine. The numbers could not be clearer. Civilian casualties in Ukraine this year were 27 per cent higher, compared to the same period last year.

This clearly underlines the urgent need for a full and unconditional ceasefire. Fourteen of us keep calling for it, yet tangible results are lacking.

Slovenia stands ready to work towards a just peace – one firmly rooted in the principles of the UN Charter. A lasting peace for Ukraine, shaped by Ukraine.

We need a decisive next step to end the bloodshed and stop the destruction. We need a ceasefire now.

Thank you.

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