Minister of Foreign Affairs, Lars Løkke Rasmussen, submits Danish statement at OSCE Permanent Council meeting on the occasion of the 2-year anniversary for Russia’s attack on Ukraine

Mr. Chair,

Two years ago, Russia launched a brutal, illegal and unprovoked full-scale invasion of Ukraine. 

This irresponsible and illegal act has changed the European security architecture and challenged the international rules-based order. With long-term effects for Ukraine, Europe and the World. 

Sovereignty and territorial integrity are cornerstones of the international order. Russia also broke these core principles 10 years ago with its illegal annexation of the Autonomous Republic of Crimea. 

Denmark condemns Russia’s war against Ukraine in the strongest terms possible. We call on Russia to end this war and withdraw from the entire territory of Ukraine. 

Denmark is outraged by the death of the Russian opposition politician Alexei Navalny for which the ultimate responsibility lies with President Putin and the Russian authorities. We call on Russia to immediately and unconditionally release the people who has been detained for paying tribute to the memory of Navalny as well as all political prisoners in Russia. 

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Russia’s invasion of Ukraine has had grave consequences for the OSCE as well. Since the illegal annexation of Crimea, OSCE has experienced severe challenges in cooperating and reaching consensus. 

The main source of these difficulties is one participating state: Russia.  

It is more important than ever to recall that OSCE, including the Helsinki Decalogue, exists to promote peace, enhance security, contribute to justice, strengthened cooperation and – however utopian it may currently seem - build mutual confidence. These values are more important today than ever.

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Denmark stands firmly behind Ukraine and will continue to do so. That was the message I conveyed, when I visited Mykolaiv last month.

We will continue to seek full accountability for Russia’s unlawful war of aggression. All alleged violations of international law must be investigated. Whether it concerns human rights, war crimes or crimes against humanity. 

Furthermore, Denmark will continue to work for a just and sustainable peace in Ukraine. In line with the Ukrainian Peace Formula, the UN Charter and international law. 

Our commitment to Ukraine’s sovereignty and independence is unwavering. 

Thank you!