Statement by Political Coordinator of Slovenia to the United Nations Klemen Ponikvar at the Arria-formula meeting on “Disinformation and Sabotage of Peace in Ukraine”, called by the Russian Federation

Thank you Mr. Chair,

We take note of the statements by the briefers.

Slovenia remains extremely saddened by the fact that the war in Ukraine is running unabated for its 37^th month. We welcome the peace efforts of the United States. We also welcome that Ukraine has accepted proposal for a 30-day full ceasefire and call on Russia to do the same. We regret that despite the agreements on partial ceasefire and the moratorium on the attacks in the Black Sea, the attacks continue.

What will it take to stop this war? What needs to happen to stop the dying of Ukrainian men, women and children? How can we stop this reckless destruction of civilian infrastructure? These daily violations of international law?

It will most definitely not stop by playing a blame game. A game of accusations. Claims of false narratives and disinformation.

If we want to stop it, we need to convene meetings that speak about facts. Verifiable information. Built on objective common understanding. This can be a basis that can bring about peace that Ukrainians, as well as all of us, so desperately need.

Let me therefore give you the following facts and common understandings that can be used if we are to solve this:

First, it begins by acknowledging the subject concerned in its rightful context. As recognized by the General Assembly, we are talking about a full-scale invasion of Ukraine by the Russian Federation.

Second. Ukraine is a sovereign and independent country, which enjoys unity and territorial integrity within its internationally recognized borders.

Third, if we are to pursue a just and lasting peace, we will need to acknowledge that it must be in accordance with the UN charter.

Mr. Chair,

We cannot and do not accept selective references to international law violations. Neither can we overlook violations of international humanitarian and human rights law committed by the Russian Federation, including those captured in numerous reports by the UN Commission of Inquiry and other UN bodies.

The war crimes committed in Bucha are also well documented.

Mr. Chair,

Discussions on disinformation and sabotage of peace are counterproductive. One could claim they are actively blocking the path to peace, weakening diplomatic efforts, and preventing meaningful dialogue to take place. They are breeding ground for mistrust, and they only extend the suffering of innocent civilian lives.

We reiterate our call for this war to stop and for full respect of the principles of the UN Charter and international humanitarian law.

True peace can only be achieved through dialogue and respect for international law.

This very organization is rooted in respect for each other. Respect for international law. Respect for multilateralism. Let us return to these basics.

I thank you.

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