Thank you, Mr President,
I thank the Under-Secretary-General for her briefing.
Some countries like to speak about the "root causes" of this war. Let us be clear. The root cause of this suffering – in Ukraine and increasingly beyond – is Russia’s revisionist ambition to overturn the international order. A permanent member of this Council is seeking to bring a sovereign nation to its knees through brute force.
Instead of seeking peace, Russia only escalates. More missiles, more drones, more death. It brings destruction while abusing its permanent seat on this very Council.
Permanent membership was never intended as a shield for aggression. It comes with a special responsibility to uphold international peace and security – not a privilege to violate it.
The task of this Council is to stop this war. Latvia continues to call for an immediate ceasefire. We support every meaningful effort towards a just and lasting peace. We welcome active United States engagement, including the first visit of the Special envoys to Kyiv.
While others pursue peace, Russia intensifies its attacks.
Mr President,
Month after month, Russia drives the civilian toll higher. As winter approaches, Latvia calls on every country to help shield Ukraine's people by supporting its air defence and safeguarding the energy system on which millions depend.
Unable to conquer Ukraine, Russia seeks to make it unliveable. What military purpose is served by striking apartment buildings where families sleep? By destroying schools? Or striking kindergartens?
These are not isolated attacks. They are part of a wider campaign against Ukraine's people, identity and future.
Russia must disclose the whereabouts of thousands of abducted Ukrainian children. Return them home. They are the children of Ukraine.
It must end torture in its detention facilities. Provide the UN system and international monitors full and unimpeded access to the temporarily occupied territories of Ukraine.
Russia must end targeting those trying to help. Attacks on clearly marked UN convoys are indefensible.
Russia must stop targeting ships and infrastructure that’s purpose is to feed people around the globe.
Russia must stop trying to break our resolve to support Ukraine. Across Europe, it seeks to do just that – through drone incursions, sabotage, arson and disinformation. Russia will not succeed. Our resolve will not weaken.
Mr President,
Aggression against a sovereign state cannot be rewarded.
The way this war ends will define the world we leave to the next generations. Our collective action is a test of the United Nations and the United Nations Charter itself. Are we ready to sacrifice the principles of sovereignty and territorial integrity?
Latvia's answer is clear. We stand with Ukraine. We stand for the principles of United Nations Charter. We stand for peace and security.
I thank you.
