At a UN Security Council meeting, Latvia delivered a blunt warning and placed international justice at the center of its message.
At a UN Security Council meeting marking Ukraine’s Independence Day, Latvia stated that Russia will inevitably be held accountable for crimes committed during its war against Ukraine. Latvian Deputy Foreign Minister Dace Melbārde also called on states to support the establishment of a Special Tribunal for the Crime of Aggression.
In her speech, she emphasized the distinct identity of the Ukrainian nation, its centuries-old culture, language, and historical heritage.
The Ukrainian people are an ancient nation with their own rich language and culture, whose history spans many centuries and reaches back to the traditions of Kyivan Rus.
– Dace Melbārde
Latvia Reminded the World of Russian Aggression Against Ukraine
Dace Melbārde noted that Russia, as a permanent member of the UN Security Council, has violated fundamental norms of international law. According to her, Moscow has disregarded the principles of the UN Charter, as well as bilateral and multilateral agreements with Ukraine.
The Latvian representative stressed that Russia’s war of aggression has been ongoing since 2014. She said that Russia is suffering losses on the battlefield but, instead of seeking peace, continues to escalate.
Today, we can clearly see that Russia is losing this war on the battlefield. No military gains, only ever-increasing losses, and yet instead of choosing peace, Russia continues to escalate.
– Dace Melbārde
Russia’s Attacks on Civilians and Food Security
Melbārde drew attention to the fact that Russia is intensifying its strikes against Ukraine’s civilian population and creating threats to global food security. Among the targets of Russian attacks, she named UN humanitarian convoys, civilian cargo vessels, Black Sea routes, and port infrastructure.
Latvia called on countries that support peace to strengthen sanctions against Russia’s missile production system. Dace Melbārde also emphasized the danger posed by Russia’s hybrid operations and threats toward neighboring states and Ukraine’s allies.
We are united and take Russia’s threats and its hybrid actions against us and our allies very seriously.
– Dace Melbārde
Special Tribunal and Russia’s Accountability
The Latvian deputy foreign minister stressed the role of international justice mechanisms in holding those responsible to account. She highlighted the need to establish a Special Tribunal for the Crime of Aggression.
Let me be clear: Russia will be held accountable for all the crimes it has committed.
– Dace Melbārde
At the end of her speech, Dace Melbārde expressed support for Ukraine and confidence in its victory.
Dear Ukrainian friends, this nightmare will pass too. You will prevail.
– Dace Melbārde