National statement at the 1516th Special meeting of the OSCE Permanent Council.

Thank you Chair,

Denmark fully aligns with the statement previously delivered by Poland under this agenda item. Allow me to add the following remarks in national capacity.

Once again we are called upon to react to the latest wave of Rus-sian attacks on Ukrainian cities and civilians. One of these mis-sile strikes, which hit Kryvyi Rih on 4 April, resulted in the deaths of at least 20 civilians – including 9 children – while doz-ens of civilians were injured, again including many children.

The missile struck an area with residential buildings and a play-ground. This was yet another display of complete disregard for civilian lives.

We recall that attacks against civilians and civilian infrastruc-ture are a clear violation of International Humanitarian Law. Denmark condemns these despicable actions as we have done so many times before. And once more we offer our deep condo-lences to the Ukrainian people.

This attack – as well as many others over recent days, weeks and months – clearly illustrates that Putin is not genuinely interested in peace. These are not the actions of a country seeking to nego-tiate a comprehensive ceasefire in good faith.

We reiterate: It is for Russia, the aggressor, to now take genuine steps that respond to Ukraine’s offer of an immediate and com-plete 30-day ceasefire and build on this momentum without fur-ther delay.

Meanwhile, Denmark’s objective remains the same: To place Ukraine in a position of strength through our military and other support. Not to prolong the fighting - but in order to end the war. To enable Ukraine to secure a just and lasting peace in line with the principles of the UN Charter at the negotiation table. And to deter Russia from future aggression.

Denmark stands firmly behind Ukraine and we will continue to do so.

Thank you chair.