Statement by H.E. Ambassador YAMANAKA Osamu, Deputy Permanent Representative of Japan to the United Nations, at the United Nations Security Council meeting on “Maintenance of peace and security of Ukraine”

Thank you, Mr. President,
 
I would like to start by thanking France for requesting this meeting, which gives us an opportunity to reaffirm our solidarity with the people of Ukraine. I would also like to thank Mr. Jenča and Mr. Rajasingham for their alarming briefings.
 
Mr. President,
 
The second winter is setting in since Russia launched its unprovoked war of aggression. In Ukraine, it has started to snow heavily, and the temperature is plummeting. Recently, people reportedly died due to a snowstorm. Russia’s continued attacks against energy facilities could force civilians to make difficult choices such as between warmth and other essential services throughout the coming months. Japan is deeply concerned that the already dire humanitarian situation in Ukraine may go from bad to worse this winter. We cannot tolerate weaponizing winter again.
 
In September this year, ahead of the full-fledged cold winter, Japan provided two autotransformers to Ukraine, and plans to provide 10 more, to contribute to the recovery and reinforcement of power supply in the country.   Japan is also aiming to provide three gas turbines by the end of this year, with two more currently in the procurement process.
Once delivered, these autotransformers and gas turbines are expected to benefit more than 5.5 million people in Ukraine.
 
Japan is also deeply distressed by Russia’s blatant disregard for International Humanitarian Law (IHL). The provisions of IHL are not options but obligations for parties to conflicts to observe and the rules to which they are held accountable. Japan will not tolerate impunity for those responsible, and perpetrators of violations of IHL must be identified and held accountable.
 
Mr. President,
 
The death toll of civilians in Ukraine verified by the United Nations has exceeded 10,000, including more than 560 children.  The actual figure may be significantly higher. 

Why do we have to observe such a grim milestone? Why did those innocent people have to die? Why do those who survived have to endure more destitution? The answer to these questions is obvious.　
Without Russia’s unlawful war of aggression, we would have not been faced with such distressing questions.
 
Once again, we strongly urge Russia to withdraw immediately and unconditionally from the internationally recognized borders of Ukraine, and not to cause further atrocities.
 
The people of Ukraine are enduring another deadly winter of war. Japan will continue to stand in solidarity with the people of Ukraine until they can finally enjoy the warm spring of peace, which they all deserve.
 
I thank you, Mr. President.