National Statement of Finland at the United Nations General Assembly 56th Plenary meeting on the situation in the temporarily occupied territories of Ukraine

Read the National Statement of Finland at the United Nations General Assembly 56th Plenary meeting on the situation in the temporarily occupied territories of Ukraine, delivered by Mr. Lauri Tierala, State Secretary to the Minister for Foreign Affairs and Minister of Defence of Finland, on 23 Feb, 2024.

Mr. President, Excellencies, Ladies and Gentlemen,

We align ourselves with the joint Nordic statement presented by Denmark. 

Tomorrow, two years have passed since Russia began its illegal full-scale war of aggression in Ukraine. For two years we have witnessed Russia’s unprovoked invasion. Ukrainians have shown their incredible resilience, starting already ten years ago with the illegal annexation of Crimea and the war in eastern Ukraine.

Tremendous human suffering continues in Ukraine. Our thoughts are with the brave people of Ukraine who are defending their families, their freedom and their country.  Our thoughts are especially with the children forcefully deported by Russia, and their families. We will continue to speak for them and others who are suffering from the consequences of Russia’s brutal war.

Mr. President,

Finland fully condemns Russia’s illegal war. It is not only a European or Western or rich countries' problem. It has immense global consequences, especially in the field of food and energy. This needs to stop.

Ukraine deserves a just and lasting peace based on the UN Charter. Therefore, Finland participates in the implementation of President Zelenskyii’s Peace Formula. It is the only serious plan to secure a peaceful future for Ukraine.

Broad international support and engagement is essential as we build up to the upcoming Peace Summit. All of our efforts make a difference.

Ukraine has immediate needs to which we must respond. But that is not enough. Ukraine will need our extensive support for a long time.

The reconstruction efforts are immense and they have already started. Finland is firmly committed to contributing to the reconstruction of Ukraine in the coming years.

Mr. President,

Russia must immediately end its brutal and illegal invasion of Ukraine. We again call on Russia to respect the independence and territorial integrity of Ukraine.

Finland continues to condemn Russia’s blatant violations of human rights, international humanitarian law and the UN Charter.

Finland continues to stand with Ukraine. As long as it takes.

Thank you.