During an emergency meeting of the UN Security Council, Switzerland condemned Russia's recent attacks on several regions in Ukraine. In New York, Switzerland recalled that attacks on the civilian population and civilian infrastructure are prohibited under international humanitarian law. All parties to the conflict are called upon to comply with international law, to protect the civilian population and to respect human rights. The precarious situation of nuclear facilities, in particular the Zaporizhzhia nuclear power plant, is a matter of particular concern. Attacks on Ukraine's energy infrastructure endanger nuclear security and safety and require urgent further attention.
At the emergency meeting, Switzerland deplored the damaging effects of Russia's aggression on the international disarmament and arms control architecture. It condemned in particular Russia's repeated nuclear threats and deplored reports of the use of a long-range ballistic missile against Ukraine. Switzerland also expressed concern about the use of irritants in combat in violation of the Chemical Weapons Convention in the context of war, as recently confirmed by the Organisation for the Prohibition of Chemical Weapons. Switzerland also expressed its deep concern about Russia's repeated use of anti-personnel mines and the recent report of the transfer of anti-personnel mines to Ukraine. It called on all states to fulfil their obligations under international law, including the obligations under the Ottawa Convention.
Finally, Switzerland called on Russia to immediately cease hostilities and withdraw its troops from Ukraine. As an elected member of the UN Security Council, Switzerland reaffirmed its support for the search for a just and lasting peace in Ukraine based on international law and the UN Charter. An end to the violence as well as a peaceful solution are urgently needed to prevent further suffering in Ukraine.
