In a joint statement issued one year after Russia's invasion, the Prime Ministers of Denmark, Finland, Iceland, Norway and Sweden express the Nordic countries' continued support for Ukraine.
Joint Statement by the Prime Ministers of the Nordic Countries on the Anniversary of the Russian Invasion of Ukraine
Today marks one year since the start of Russia's full-scale invasion of Ukraine. For 365 days, this unjustified, unprovoked and illegal military attack has caused unimaginable suffering, death and destruction on a scale not seen on our continent since World War II. Millions of people had to leave their safe homes. Families are torn apart and heinous attacks on civilians and critical infrastructure continue to injure the innocent and the vulnerable.
We Nordic countries express our unwavering solidarity with Ukraine. We support its independence, sovereignty and territorial integrity within internationally recognized borders. We stand firmly on the side of the Ukrainian people and praise their brave resistance, perseverance and dedication. We will continue, for as long as necessary, our steadfast support in the form of political, military, humanitarian and economic assistance, and we strongly support Ukraine in its Euro-Atlantic aspirations.
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Only Russia can end this war
We condemn Russia's brutal aggression in the strongest terms. There is a Russian war gross violation international law and the United Nations Charter. It also poses the most serious threat to Euro-Atlantic security in decades. A comprehensive, just and lasting peace in Ukraine is needed, in accordance with the principles of the United Nations Charter. Only Russia can end this war by ceasing hostilities and withdrawing its forces from Ukrainian territory. We continue to call on the Russian Federation to do so immediately.
Nordic solidarity with Ukraine
Peace must be based on justice and accountability. The accumulation of reports of sexual violence, including rape, is just one example of the horrific systematic violations of international humanitarian and human rights law perpetrated by Russian forces. Civilians forcibly removed from Ukraine, including children, must be allowed to return to their homes. All reports of atrocities and serious human rights violations must be properly investigated. The perpetrators of these war crimes must be held accountable. There can be no impunity.
Ukraine's fight is also our fight
The consequences of Russia's war with Ukraine are felt all over the world. Economic stability, energy and food security are under serious threat and have serious consequences for the least developed countries. Most importantly, the fundamental principles that underpin European and global security are under attack. International law is our first line of defense. If this line can be crossed anywhere, safety is at risk everywhere. Russia's continued aggression threatens democracy and violates human rights is a challenge for the rule of law. These core values must be protected. Ukraine's fight is our fight. Ukraine must win.
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Source: regjeringen
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