Statement by H.E. Ambassador YAMAZAKI Kazuyuki, Permanent Representative of Japan to the United Nations, at the United Nations Security Council Briefing, Agenda item "Maintenance of peace and security of Ukraine"

 
Thank you, Mr. President for convening this meeting.

I also thank ASG Khiari for his briefing.

We are appalled by the reports of a massive and widespread missile attack across Ukraine. According to the United Nations, the attack reportedly resulted in at least 30 civilians killed and more than 160 injured and the numbers are growing. It appears that the attack deliberately targeted civilian infrastructure, such as residential and hospitals.

We condemn in the strongest terms the attack by Russia on Ukraine and echo the statement of the UN Secretary-General today. Our heartfelt condolences and sympathies go out to the families and friends of those who were victimized in Ukraine.

We also hold in our thoughts those injured, and we wish them a swift and full recovery. The loss of loved ones and homes amidst the harsh cold of winter is a profound tragedy.

There must be no impunity for war crimes and other atrocities including attacks against civilians and critical civil infrastructure. Justice must be done, and those who are responsible for these acts must be held accountable.
 
Mr. President,

It has been almost two years since this unprovoked war of aggression by Russia began. It is crucial to reiterate this point. As the overwhelming majority of the General Assembly have recognized, this heinous war of aggression was started by Russia. Russia must end its own flagrant violation of the UN Charter now.

We once again urge Russia to stop its ongoing aggression and immediately, completely and unconditionally withdraw its troops and military equipment from the entire internationally recognized territory of Ukraine.
 
We remain steadfast in upholding and strengthening the free and open international order based on the rule of law, respecting the UN Charter.

Our unwavering commitment remains steadfast in supporting Ukraine, which is valiantly defending its people, independence, sovereignty, and territorial integrity in accordance with the UN Charter.

We have been with Ukraine and will stand by Ukraine for as long as it takes.

At the end of this statement, since we also believe this is the last Security Council meeting this year, I’d like to also congratulate Ecuador for your very able, successful presidency. And on behalf of Japan, I would like to also express our heartfelt gratitude to the outgoing members for the excellent and constructive working relationship, which our team enjoyed very much.

Thank you.