Statement by Political Coordinator of Slovenia to the United Nations Klemen Ponikvar at the Arria-formula meeting titled “Crimes of the Ukrainian Armed Forces and the nationalist battalions”, convened by the Russian Federation

Mr. Chair,

I take note of the statements by the briefers. I would like to make a couple of points on behalf of my delegation.

Number one. Slovenia treats accusations of Nazism and international humanitarian law violations with utmost seriousness. We also strongly reject any kind of political manipulation with such accusations.

Let me be clear: we will not recognise the aggressor as the victim. Slovenia supports and will support Ukraine in its defence against aggression. It is quite clear to us that in Europe, the current threat of territorial expansion by aggressive war, occupation and annexation based on nationalism and military means does not stem from Ukraine.

Two. Numerous times, we have warned against selective references to violations of international law. We denounce double standards in application of international humanitarian law. It is odd listening to accusations of international humanitarian law violations, while the accuser is bombing critical energy infrastructure and children’s hospitals.

Slovenia is aware that the current international framework has an accountability gap when it comes to crime of aggression and supports the establishment of a special tribunal on the crime of aggression against Ukraine. We believe that this will lay important groundwork for justice to be served in the future.

In order to achieve a just and lasting peace, accountability for perpetrators of war crimes and crimes against humanity must be ensured. There is no sustainable peace without justice. Victims and survivors must have a central role in these processes. In relation to the war on Ukraine, Slovenia has repeatedly called for timely, effective and comprehensive accountability measures.

In this regard, we strongly support the International Criminal Court, which is the best avenue to ensure accountability and can bring justice for the victims – all the victims of this war.

I thank you.

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