I will now make a statement in my national capacity.
Like my colleagues, I would like to thank the Deputy High Representative for Disarmament Affairs, Mr. Ebo.
Switzerland continues to strongly condemn the flagrant violation of international law, including the UN Charter, that is Russia’s military aggression. We reiterate that Russia's actions violate the prohibition on the use of force, as well as the territorial integrity and sovereignty of Ukraine. They cannot be justified.
It is high time to act to restore respect for the UN Charter. We therefore once again call on Russia to immediately cease all hostilities and withdraw its troops from the entire territory of Ukraine.
Switzerland remains deeply concerned about the impact of this war on the civilian population. We remind all parties of their strict obligation to respect international humanitarian law and human rights. The latest report by the Independent International Commission of Inquiry on Ukraine, published this week, provides a devastating account with new findings concerning torture, sexual violence, attacks with explosive weapons that affected civilians and civilian objects, as well as attacks on energy related infrastructure. We note that the Commission concludes that it has sufficient evidence to determine that the Russian authorities committed crimes against humanity of torture.
Switzerland strongly supports the work of the Commission and its recommendations. We urge Russia to comply with these recommendations without delay, and to cooperate fully with all international monitoring and investigative bodies.
Excellencies,
Switzerland has repeatedly expressed its position on today's subject.
Firstly, we reaffirm that Ukraine has the right to ensure its security and defend its territorial integrity and sovereignty.
Secondly, we express our deep dismay over the apparent continuation and intensification of external support for Russia's military aggression. I refer to yesterday's Council meeting, which dealt with the alleged deployment of troops from the Democratic People's Republic of Korea to Russia, and to the position Switzerland expressed on that occasion.
And thirdly, we echo the call of the United Nations Office for Disarmament Affairs to comply with the applicable international legal framework, including relevant resolutions of this Council, when transferring arms and munitions. We urge all States to respect their legal obligations and assume their political responsibilities.
In conclusion, I emphasize Switzerland's ongoing commitment to supporting efforts to achieve a just and lasting peace in Ukraine, based on the principles of the UN Charter. This commitment goes hand in hand with our support for accountability efforts, particularly those aimed at bringing the perpetrators of international crimes to justice.
For there can be no peace in Ukraine without justice.
I thank you.