UNGA81 Third Committee Interactive Dialogue with the Chair of the Independent International Commission of Inquiry on Ukraine Mr. Erik Møse
Statement delivered by H.E. Ms. Heli Lehto, Deputy Permanent Representative of Finland
on behalf of the Nordic Baltic countries:
Denmark, Estonia, Finland, Iceland, Latvia, Lithuania, Norway and Sweden
New York, 26 October 2026
Mr Chair,
I have the honor to speak on behalf of the Nordic and Baltic States. We thank the Commission for its valuable work and latest report.
We strongly condemn Russia’s illegal war of aggression against Ukraine, which violates international law and the core principles of the UN Charter, and continues to lead to devastating human rights violations.
Civilians continue to bear a large part of the brunt of the war, with rising casualties and damage to civilian objects and energy infrastructure. This despite Ukraine’s offer of a full ceasefire, as well as an energy ceasefire.
We are concerned by continuous reports of violations in Ukrainian territories temporarily occupied by Russia, including torture, restrictions on fundamental freedoms and by reports of the militarisation and ideological indoctrination of children. We call on Russia to release arbitrarily detained civilians, to provide information on those subjected to enforced disappearance, and to return all Ukrainian children to Ukraine.
We strongly support the work of the Independent International Commission of Inquiry on Ukraine, the OHCHR and other international accountability mechanisms. Their work is indispensable for establishing the facts, securing justice for victims and ensuring that those responsible for violations are held accountable.
The Nordic and Baltic states reiterate their call for an immediate, full and unconditional ceasefire as a first step towards a just and lasting peace in Ukraine, grounded in respect for the UN Charter and international law. We will continue to stand with Ukraine and reaffirm our unwavering support for Ukraine’s sovereignty, independence and territorial integrity within its internationally recognized borders.
Mr Møse, what lessons from other conflicts could help address the long-term consequences of the militarisation and indoctrination of Ukrainian children while ensuring accountability of those responsible?
Thank you.