Statement by H.E. Ambassador YAMAZAKI Kazuyuki, Permanent Representative of Japan to the United Nations, at the United Nations General Assembly Debate on the situation in the temporarily occupied territories of Ukraine

Mr. President,

It has been three and a half years since Russia launched its unprovoked war of aggression against the sovereign state of Ukraine. During this period, countless innocent civilians of Ukraine have lost their lives, while many more have been injured as a result of Russia’s ruthless and indiscriminate attacks on critical infrastructure, including hospitals, schools, and power plants.

This war has further evolved with North Korea supplying Russia with weapons, ammunition and ballistic missiles, and even deploying its own troops in support. Such unlawful, illegitimate and unacceptable military cooperation between Russia and North Korea, being carried out in violation of relevant Security Council resolutions, expands the geographical scope of the conflict and undermines peace and security in Europe, the Indo-Pacific and beyond.
 
Mr. President,

Russia’s aggression against Ukraine constitutes a clear and blatant violation of international law, including the UN Charter.

The Charter represents a solemn commitment that all Member States must observe in good faith, and it remains the unshakable foundation of international relations. The preservation of sovereignty and territorial integrity is of paramount importance and any unilateral change of the status quo by force is never acceptable anywhere in the world. Any action that directly or indirectly supports Russia’s aggression is itself a violation of international law, and all States complicit in such aggression must be held accountable.

Japan also strongly condemns the widespread and systematic use of torture, including sexual violence as a form of torture, carried out against both Ukrainian civilians and prisoners of war and committed openly with an apparent sense of impunity by Russian authorities. Any war crimes and violations of human rights must be met with accountability.

Mr. President,

Despite tireless diplomatic efforts by many countries, Russia continues its attacks across Ukraine. Japan strongly demands that Russia move toward a swift and comprehensive ceasefire, and ultimately toward the realization of a just and lasting peace.

Japan welcomes the active efforts of the United States and European partners in striving to end Russia’s aggression and to achieve such a peace.  In this regard, it is essential to emphasize that issues concerning sovereignty and territorial integrity must be addressed with the involvement of Ukraine.

Japan also believes the war has shown that the security of Europe and the Indo-Pacific are inseparable. Achieving peace in Ukraine requires considering global security implications and establishing a framework to deter renewed aggression and illegitimate use of force.

Mr. President,

Ukraine’s recovery and reconstruction is an urgent task for the international community. As a step toward recovery, Japan will host the “Ukraine Mine Action Conference” in Tokyo on 22–23 October 2025, bringing together public and private expertise to advance mine clearance. Japan will continue to actively support Ukraine’s recovery and reconstruction while building international momentum.

Mr. President,

We must not stop our efforts to maintain and strengthen the international order based on the rule of law and realize a safe and secure world where human dignity is protected.

Japan’s position remains unwavering. “We have stood with Ukraine, and we will continue to stand with Ukraine.” Japan will continue to work in close partnership with its allies and partners in pursuit of a just and lasting peace.

I thank you.