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National Statement of the Republic of Lithuania delivered by Permanent Representative to the United Nations H.E. Mr. Rytis Paulauskas at the UN General Assembly Emergency Special Session on Ukraine on Tuesday, 24 February 2026.

Madam President, Excellencies, Colleagues,

We gather today entering the fifth year of Russia’s unprovoked and unjustified war of aggression against Ukraine, and over a decade since the illegal annexation of Crimea marked a direct assault on both Europe’s security architecture and the rules that sustain the UN Charter–based international order, including the principles of sovereignty and territorial integrity.

Already for four years the call for peace by most of the UN member states was consistent, expressed in the numerous General Assembly resolutions, yet Russia has chosen to ignore this call. This is why we are meeting here again, expressing our full support to Ukraine and demanding the end of Russia’s aggression.

Since the very beginning of this year the people of Ukraine have been under constant bombardment by Russia’s armed forces. Russia shelled Ukrainian cities and deliberately targeted civilian energy infrastructure, weaponizing winter and amplifying nuclear risk.

This took place amid sustained efforts by Ukraine, Europe, the United States and other partners to achieve a just and lasting peace and end the bloodshed.

Excellencies,

Today, as we consider this draft resolution, our position must be principled, coherent, and firm.

First, an immediate, full and unconditional ceasefire is indispensable. It is the necessary first step to halt further loss of life and human suffering. Ukraine has demonstrated its readiness to pursue peace. The responsibility to cease the hostilities now rests with Russia.

Second, a comprehensive, just and lasting peace can only be achieved in full accordance with international law, including the UN Charter. Sovereignty and territorial integrity are not negotiable – they are the cornerstone of international peace and security.

Ukraine must not be pressured into territorial concessions, and we must firmly uphold a principled policy of non-recognition of Russia’s attempted annexations – neither de jure nor de facto.

Last year, Lithuania’s Parliament adopted a resolution confirming that Lithuania will never recognize Russia’s illegally occupied or annexed Ukrainian territories as part of Russia. I call on all Member States to uphold the same position.

Territorial integrity cannot be defended selectively. The UN Charter is not optional. The rules-based international order is not conditional.

Third, humanitarian action is an indispensable component of any credible peace process. The complete exchange of prisoners of war, the release of all unlawfully detained persons, and the safe return of civilians who have been forcibly transferred or deported – including children – are essential prerequisites for building trust and advancing peace, and remain among Lithuania’s highest priorities. We will continue to actively support all efforts to ensure their safe, unconditional, and swift return.

Finally, there can be no durable peace without justice. Full accountability for the crime of aggression and for all war crimes and crimes against humanity committed in Ukraine must be ensured.

Recently, Lithuania’s Foreign Minister Kęstutis Budrys addressed the prosecutors of the International Criminal Court, requesting to consider issuing new arrest warrants for Russian officials responsible for continued attacks on Ukraine's energy infrastructure and extending the scope of already issued arrest warrants.

The swift operationalisation of the Special Tribunal for the crime of aggression against Ukraine, established under the auspices of the Council of Europe, and the establishment of a Claims Commission must remain priorities for the international community.

Colleagues,

Ukraine continues to resist with extraordinary courage. But courage alone is not enough. Ukraine urgently requires sustained financial, technical, air defence, and interceptor support. Its humanitarian needs are growing. We have already allocated more than 100 million euros for the restoration of Ukraine’s energy infrastructure alone and will continue strengthening its resilience. We commend the UN humanitarian agencies and their workers, who amid the most difficult conditions and ongoing attacks are assisting Ukrainians and easing their suffering.

Lithuania stands firmly with Ukraine and remains committed to its independence, sovereignty, and territorial integrity within its internationally recognized borders.

But just to be very clear - Ukraine today is defending more than its territory. It is defending the principles that underpin our global security and the very credibility of this Organization.

Our response today will shape not only the future of Ukraine, but also the future of the international order we are prepared to defend. [We thus encourage you to support the resolution submitted by Ukraine].

Thank you.