EU Statement – UN Security Council: Ukraine

EU Statement - UN Security Council: Ukraine

23 March 2026, New York - Statement on behalf of the European Union by H.E. Ambassador Stavros Lambrinidis, Head of the Delegation of the European Union to the United Nations, at the UN Security Council: Maintenance of Peace and Security of Ukraine

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President,

I thank the US Presidency for convening this meeting. [Thank you to the briefers for their updates.]

Russia's disastrous war of aggression has now entered its fifth year. Almost 1500 days have passed in which Russia has subjected Ukraine and its citizens to a brutal aggression, a violation of the UN Charter which has repeatedly been condemned by the UN General Assembly. But Russia's statements in this Chamber continue to blame others and find justifications for the unjustifiable.

We rarely hear about the toll of this war on Russians themselves. Yet, its forces have reportedly suffered approximately 1.2 million casualties since 2022, with as many as 325.000 killed. It has not achieved its military objectives and struggles to hold the territory it has captured. Frustrated by its lack of progress on the battle ground, Russia continues to deliberately target Ukrainian civilians, their energy, heating, water, hospitals, schools and residences.

In February alone, Russia targeted Ukrainian cities with almost 300 missiles and over 5000 drones, the highest numbers since it started its systematic campaign against Ukrainian civilians four years ago. The OHCHR has verified at least 188 civilian deaths in February as a result of Russian attacks, adding to the over 15.000 verified civilian deaths Russia is responsible for. Without the successful interception rate of Ukrainian air defences, civilian casualties would have been even higher. Intentionally attacking civilians and civilian objects is a war crime, and perpetrators will face justice and be held accountable. We commend the resilience of the Ukrainian people to stand firm in defence of their country and stand up for the UN Charter.

Colleagues,

According to UNICEF, over a third of Ukrainian children remain displaced as a result of Russia's aggression. I recall the decision of the GA last December to redouble efforts to return Ukrainian children who have been unlawfully deported and forcibly transferred to Russia, and we look forward to hearing from the UN about its efforts to this end. For those still in doubt about whether this is important, I refer to the comprehensive new report by the Independent International Commission of Inquiry that presents further damning evidence of Russia's obstruction of the return of Ukrainian children. The Commission concludes that Russia's actions amount to crimes against humanity and war crimes. We are also deeply alarmed by its findings that nationals from Africa, the Middle East and South-East Asia, are recruited by Russia to fight in Ukraine, often lured by false pretences.

Colleagues,

In coordination with our allies, the European Union will continue to provide comprehensive political, financial, economic, humanitarian, military, and diplomatic support to Ukraine and its people in line with its inherent right to self-defence according to article 51 of the UN Charter.

At the same time, the EU continues to focus on achieving an immediate, full and unconditional ceasefire, and a just, lasting and comprehensive peace in line with international law, including the UN Charter. The GA has spoken out very clearly in this regard. The EU will sustain its diplomatic efforts with Ukraine, together with the United States and other partners. From its side, Ukraine has repeatedly stated its readiness for an immediate ceasefire. Meanwhile, Russia continues to pursue its maximalist claims. We call on all members of this Council to join us in urging Russia to stop pretending and engage in meaningful negotiations.

Third countries that enable Russia's aggression must stop doing so. Iran, Belarus and DPRK must halt their military support, and all countries, including members of this Council, must cease any and all direct and indirect assistance to Russia. We welcome Ukraine's readiness to provide support and expertise in air defence and counter-drone systems to Gulf countries, based on its experience of being systematically subjected to Russian attacks by Iranian Shahed drones.

President,

In conclusion, I reiterate the EU's support to Ukraine's independence, sovereignty and territorial integrity within its internationally recognized borders. No country can annex its neighbor, no borders can be changed by force. It is time for Russia to stop the killing and engage in meaningful talks in order to achieve a just and lasting peace.

I thank you.