Selective use or disregard of global norms / Day is unacceptable

He confirmed that the alternative is a terrible world in which force rules and the rule of law loses its power.

The President reminded that this is the third year since Russia has been waging a full-scale unprepared war of aggression against Ukraine. Moreover, it continues to challenge the stability and determination of the international community to defend the rules-based order.

Rinkevičs pointed out that this war has a major impact on stability in the region and beyond. This has far-reaching implications for the principles underlying sovereignty, territorial integrity and international law.

The President emphasized the need to ensure that the global order is stable against aggression, especially when the aggressor is a nuclear armed state and a permanent member of the UN Security Council.

“Russia is trying to destroy what we have all built together. Russia is trying to reorganize the international order so that only the aggressors benefit,” the president reminded.

Rinkevičs confirmed that Latvia continues to demand the unconditional withdrawal of all Russian troops and military equipment from the territory of ​​​​​​​​​Ukraine. “There can be no compromise on the sovereignty and territorial integrity of Ukraine,” the official warned.

The President of Latvia reminded the audience that Russia’s unprofessional attack has far-reaching consequences beyond Ukraine’s borders. It affects global food security, nuclear safety and the humanitarian situation.

“Access to food is a human right. Hunger should never be used as a political tool,” he said, adding that Latvia stands in solidarity with the countries most affected by the food crisis.

Rinkevich also said that the forced deportation and illegal adoption of Ukrainian children to Russia is a cause of great concern. Therefore, he asked the UN to take a more active position on this matter.

At the same time, the president urged all UN member states to support and join the statement adopted at the Swiss Peace Conference to start a peace process that construction based on the principles of the UN Charter.

“Russia must take full legal and financial responsibility for its aggression. We must do everything we can to bring Russia to full responsibility for all crimes committed in Ukraine, ” emphasized Rinkevich.

He called for the creation of a special tribunal capable of prosecuting major perpetrators of aggressive crimes and ensuring full accountability.

The President also said that it is necessary to prevent the deepening of the crisis in the Middle East and to avoid its spread in the region.

“We remain hopeful that progress will soon be made in ending the hostilities,” Rinkevičs stressed, adding that the international community and the UN should particularly support efforts to ensure that all citizens are protected and to strive for a sustainable solution.

He reminded that Latvia, together with the other member states of the European Union, has demanded an immediate cessation of hostilities in Gaza, the unconditional release of all hostages and the provision of large-scale humanitarian aid.

“We condemn all terrorist attacks on Israel. We recognize Israel’s legal right to self-defense. But it must be implemented in accordance with international law and, in particular, international humanitarian law , which was introduced to protect all civilians,” the president said. pressure.

At the same time, he called for a focus on renewing the political process to break the cycle of violence and achieve a just and lasting peace. “A peace that addresses the legitimate aspirations and security concerns of both Israelis and Palestinians,” he said.

As mentioned, Rinkēvičs is participating in the 79th session of the UN General Assembly in New York, USA until Friday, September 27.