Statement delivered by H.E. Nicola Clase, Permanent Representative of Sweden to the UN, on behalf of the Nordic—Baltic countries at the General Assembly on "the Situation in the temporarily occupied territories of Ukraine", 4 September, 2025, New York
President, distinguished colleagues,
Kherson is Ukraine.
Zaporizhzhia is Ukraine.
Donetsk is Ukraine.
Luhansk is Ukraine.
Crimea is Ukraine.
Sevastopol is Ukraine.
There can be no reward for aggression. We must never accept a world where the strong act without restraint and others are condemned to suffer.
Speaking in this chamber, let one truth be abundantly clear: Russia has chosen a war of aggression. Ukraine, by contrast, exercises its inherent right to self-defense, enshrined in the Charter of the United Nations.
There can be no false balance between aggressor and victim. Russia and its leadership must be held accountable.
It is our common duty to support Ukraine in its legitimate pursuit of a comprehensive, just, and lasting peace — a peace rooted firmly in international law.
The alternative — a so-called peace where the foundations of international law are trampled upon — would have grave consequences for us all.
First, it would set the stage for renewed Russian aggression against Ukraine, for the Kremlin has not abandoned its goal of subjugation and domination.
Second, it would embolden other potential aggressors across the globe, placing all nations at risk.
This year we mark the 80th anniversary of the United Nations Charter. Eighty years on, the principles forged in the aftermath of world war remain our compass today.
To recognize territorial acquisitions by military force would be a violation of international law and would set a detrimental precedent for international peace and security.
Nor can we allow impunity for the crimes committed in the temporarily occupied territories in Ukraine. Independent UN mechanisms continue to document severe repression, arbitrary detentions, extrajudicial killings, and sexual and gender-based violence.
Russia’s forced deportations, transfers, and abductions of children are unlawful and unjustifiable. Russia must return all children immediately. Every moment counts. International humanitarian law must prevail, and unfettered access to occupied territories must be ensured.
Mr. President, in all this hardship, Ukraine has demonstrated extraordinary resilience. We are in awe of its bravery.
The Nordic-Baltic countries will continue to stand with Ukraine. We will strengthen our political, military, and economic support — today, tomorrow, and in the future.
We must all work together to reverse the philosophy that might makes right, and prove that right has might.
Thank you.
