Thank you, Madam President.
I would like to thank Ms. Lisa Doughten from OCHA for her briefing.
Over the past two years, Switzerland has repeatedly expressed its views on Ukraine in this Council. The Ukrainian people have always been at the center of our concerns.
Today is no exception.
More than 14 million people in Ukraine are currently in need of humanitarian aid. The number of civilian casualties has exceeded 40,000 and over 10 million people are displaced and in need of refuge. Persistent bombardments have created an environment of fear and uncertainty.
Winter threatens to exacerbate an already precarious humanitarian situation. While temperatures have dropped below zero, Russian attacks continue to disrupt essential services.
Madam President,
The attacks on Ukraine's energy infrastructure, the latest of which occurred just a few days ago, are particularly worrying. They have led to power cuts across the country and the loss of access to essential services such as water and heating. More than half of Ukraine's energy facilities have been destroyed or damaged.
Switzerland condemns these systematic, large-scale attacks, which may constitute war crimes and crimes against humanity. Allow me to highlight three priorities for my delegation:
First, respect for international humanitarian law: The principles of distinction, precaution and proportionality must be respected by all parties to the conflict at all times. Reports from the Human Rights Monitoring Mission and the Independent International Commission of Inquiry on Ukraine indicate that attacks on power infrastructure are likely to violate these fundamental principles. Switzerland calls on Russia to cease these attacks immediately. Accountability for all violations of international humanitarian and human rights law must be ensured. In this regard, we take note of the arrest warrants issued by the International Criminal Court and reiterate our support for the Court.
Second, addressing humanitarian needs: Months of systematic attacks on civilian infrastructure are threatening access to basic services, severely hampering the supply of water and electricity. Power outages are disrupting daily life throughout the country, affecting millions of people and disproportionately affecting the most vulnerable, including the elderly, the disabled and internally displaced persons. They prevent access to education and healthcare, and hamper communication. Switzerland is therefore stepping up its efforts to protect the most vulnerable in line with the UN's Winter Response Plan for Ukraine.
Third, ensuring nuclear safety and security: Damage to Ukraine's energy infrastructure poses a serious risk to nuclear safety. The International Atomic Energy Agency has stressed the need for a stable electricity grid to ensure safe operation of nuclear facilities. Switzerland urges all parties to fully respect international law and to adhere to the seven pillars for nuclear safety and security, as well as the five principles, established here, in this Council. We reiterate that the safety of all IAEA experts on mission is of the utmost importance, and condemn the attack against them on December 10.
Madam President,
The consequences of the war for the Ukrainian population will be felt for months, if not years.
Switzerland commends the tireless efforts of humanitarian actors, including the indispensable contribution of Ukrainian organizations and volunteers who, often risking their lives, continue to provide vital assistance to people in need. We pay tribute to the more than 50 humanitarian workers who have been killed or injured in Ukraine this year. We call for full, rapid, safe and unhindered humanitarian access to all civilians in need, including near the front line and in occupied territories. The protection of humanitarian personnel is essential to ensure that aid reaches those who need it most.
The protection of civilians remains a fundamental priority. We reiterate our call on Russia to halt its military aggression and withdraw its troops from all Ukrainian territory. True to its commitment at the first Ukraine Peace Summit this summer, Switzerland will continue to support efforts to achieve a just and lasting peace, in accordance with the UN Charter.
Beyond our mandate on the Council, the Ukrainian people will remain at the center of our concerns and support.
I thank you.