Statement by Mr. NAGANO Shunsuke, Counsellor, Permanent Mission of Japan to the United Nations, at the Arria-formula meeting on Ukraine

Mr. Chair,

It is quite eye-opening to learn about a history of “Maidan” from the Russian point of view. At the same time, for most of us here and the world, it is quite obvious that this is another attempt to defame and criticize Ukraine and the West, thereby distracting world’s attention from what is going on right now in Ukrainian territories – disastrous humanitarian situation due to Russia’s aggression – as well as justifying the brutal aggression against a sovereign state. We arefed up with Russia calling so many Security Council meetings including Arria-formula meetings to this end. Do we, the Council Members and UN Member States, really deserve this? Despite all the efforts by Russia, no reasonable person would believe its narrative. Such misuse of the prerogative of a Council member would rather be self destructive, further damaging its reputation. It is sad for everybody.
 
The concept note of this event emphasizes the importance of a truthful account of events and avoiding misinterpretation.

There is no room for misinterpretation for one thing. As the overwhelming majority of the General Assembly have recognized, the fact is that this heinous war of aggression was started by Russia. And Ukraine is fighting against it in accordance with the UN Charter to protect its own people, independence, sovereignty, and territorial integrity. The sole cause of the current suffering of the Ukrainian people, especially in winter, is Russia's aggression, which is a flagrant violation of the UN Charter. Nothing more, nothing less.

It has also withdrawn from the Black Sea Grain Initiative and destroyed port facilities to deliver food abroad, affecting not only Ukraine but the entire world.
 
Mr. Chair,

We once again urge the Russian Federation not to squander our precious time and resources for your political purposes. Russia should direct its diplomatic energy toward correcting its own violation of the UN Charter.

We remain steadfast in upholding and strengthening the free and open international order based on the rule of law, respecting the UN Charter. There must be no impunity for war crimes and other atrocities. Justice must be done, and those who are responsible for the undeniable atrocities must be held accountable.

Last but not least, our commitment to supporting Ukraine will never waver. We have been with Ukraine, and will stand by Ukraine for as long as it takes.
 
I thank you.