Nordic and Baltic countries demand Russia's withdrawal from Ukraine at UN

TALLINN - The Nordic and Baltic countries called on Russia to immediately fulfill its obligations under international law and demanded the complete and unconditional withdrawal of all Russian forces from the territory of Ukraine, Ukrinform reported.

Finland's Deputy Permanent Representative to the UN, Heli Lehto, made a statement on behalf of eight countries at a UN General Assembly session addressing the situation in the temporarily occupied territories of Ukraine.

"We, the Nordic and Baltic countries, call on Russia to immediately and fully fulfill its obligations under international law. We demand the immediate, complete, and unconditional withdrawal of all Russian forces from the territory of Ukraine within its internationally recognized borders," the diplomat said.

Lehto emphasized that respect for Ukraine's sovereignty and territorial integrity is a prerequisite for a comprehensive, just, and lasting peace.

She pointed to the sharp increase in Russian attacks on civilians and civilian infrastructure in 2026. According to her, the number of civilian deaths and injuries is at its highest level since March 2022, while residents of the temporarily occupied territories continue to face constant and systematic repression.

"UN independent investigators continue to report mass arbitrary detentions and the widespread use of torture against civilians, detainees, and prisoners of war," she said.

Lehto also referred to reports of systematic sexual violence against Ukrainians in Russian custody and the abuse of women and children in the occupied territories.

"Human rights organizations have documented the large-scale forced displacement and illegal deportation of Ukrainian children. Ukrainian authorities report deliberate efforts to destroy Ukrainian national identity in the occupied areas, including through militarization, indoctrination, and the illegal adoption of children," the Finnish representative said.

Lehto recalled that the occupying authorities have an obligation to ensure the humane treatment of the local population, meet their basic needs, and facilitate the delivery of humanitarian aid.

"It is clear that Russia is unwilling to fulfill these obligations," she said.

The diplomat also affirmed the eight countries' commitment to holding Russia accountable for the international crimes it has committed.

"We remain firmly committed to the creation of a special tribunal for the crime of aggression against Ukraine and continue to steadfastly support the work of the International Criminal Court," Lehto concluded.

The diplomat presented the joint statement on behalf of Denmark, Estonia, Iceland, Latvia, Lithuania, Norway, Sweden, and Finland.