Statement by Deputy Political Coordinator of Slovenia to the United Nations Špela Košir at the Arria-formula meeting titled “Systematic violations of IHL committed by the Armed Forces of Ukraine on the territory of the Russian Federation”, convened by the Russian Federation

Mr. Chair,

I would like to reiterate some of the points we have already made in the previous discussions on this issue.

Firstly, we cannot and do not accept selective references to international law violations and attempts to set double standards in applying international humanitarian and human rights law. It is unacceptable to ignore the acts of executions of Ukrainian civilians and prisoners of war, abductions of children, sinking of grain ships in the Black Sea, and destruction of Ukraine’s energy infrastructure, as its population, already in dire need of humanitarian assistance, braces itself for the harsh winter. Briefing about only a fraction of alleged violations raises questions about the aim and credibility of such discussions.

Secondly, we are in dire need for a just and lasting peace for Ukraine. However, there will be no sustainable peace without ensuring accountability for all violations of international law that occurred during this war. Accountability is vital and must be ensured regardless of the perpetrator.

This is also the case for the crime of aggression and we need to fill the accountability gap in the international legal framework in this regard. For this reason, Slovenia supports the establishment of a special tribunal on the crime of aggression against Ukraine and we view it as an important investment in justice that must be delivered to prevent any future recurrence. The message must be clear: acts of aggression have no place in the world of UN Charter and international law. 

Moreover, we advocate for victims and survivors to have a central role in these processes and continue to call for timely, effective and comprehensive accountability measures.

In this context, Slovenia also supports the activities of the International Criminal Court, which represents the most fitting setting to investigate and prosecute allegations, ensure accountability for atrocities, and bring justice to all victims of this war.

I thank you.

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