Statement by Mr. IRIYA Takayuki, Minister, Permanent Mission of Japan to the United Nations, at the United Nations Security Council Briefing, Agenda item "Threats to International Peace and Security"

Mr. President,

Thank you for coordinating to convene this meeting.

I also thank ASG Khiari for his briefing.

Mr. President,

We recall that indiscriminate attacks on innocent civilian populations constitute a war crime. We condemn all violations of international humanitarian law and violations and abuses of human rights, and call upon all parties to strictly abide by international humanitarian law.

We underline that there can be no impunity for war crimes and other atrocities. The international community must hold those responsible accountable in accordance with international law.

Mr. President,

We should not lose sight of why on earth we are gathering here today. This situation would not have happened in the first place if Russia had not started its illegal aggression against Ukraine. As stated by the overwhelming majority of the UN General Assembly, Russia’s aggression is a clear violation of international law including the UN Charter. 

As we have repeatedly made ourselves clear, including during the Security Council meeting yesterday, Japan will continue to stand with Ukraine until the day when a comprehensive, just, and lasting peace in Ukraine that will uphold all the purposes and principles of the UN Charter, is realized.

Once again, we urge Russia to withdraw immediately and unconditionally from the internationally recognized borders of Ukraine. Japan has been and will continue to stand in solidarity with the people of Ukraine as long as it takes.

I thank you.