S/PV.10056 Security Council

In accordance with rule 39 of the Council’s provisional rules of procedure, I invite Her Excellency Ms. Elina Valtonen, Chairperson-in-Office of the Organization for Security and Cooperation in Europe and Minister for Foreign Affairs of Finland, to participate in this meeting. The Security Council will now begin its consideration of the item on its agenda. I now give the floor to Ms. Valtonen. Ms. Valtonen: I thank you so much, Madam President, for the opportunity to address the Security Council as Chairperson-in-Office of the Organization for Security and Cooperation in Europe (OSCE). Fifty years ago, in 1975, the Conference on Security and Cooperation in Europe convened in Finland and adopted the Helsinki Final Act, laying the foundation for today’s OSCE. Its principles mirror those of the Charter of the United Nations — sovereign equality, territorial integrity, the inviolability of borders, refraining from the threat or use of force and respect for human rights. For five decades, the OSCE has been the guardian of these principles and has held States accountable. It continues to do so. In the depths of the cold war, what made the Helsinki spirit groundbreaking was the recognition that security is not merely a matter of regulating behaviour between governments; it is inseparable from the rights of individuals. Granting fundamental rights to its citizens is the duty of each participating State. In the years to come, the spirit of Helsinki helped ordinary people suffering from oppression behind the Iron Curtain to see hope and eventually tear down that wall. That same spirit can still be witnessed today across the OSCE region. Again, the force for good lies with the people, and, given the choice, people choose freedom. That is what the Helsinki principles are all about. Russia’s war of aggression against Ukraine is the largest and longest war in Europe since the Second World War. In Ukraine, Russia is violating the Charter of the United Nations and each of the 10 Helsinki principles. Supporting Ukraine and promoting accountability for violations of international law have been at the heart of the work of our chairpersonship of the OSCE. I call on all to support Ukraine in achieving a just and lasting peace as soon as possible. I am convinced that the way this war ends will decisively shape the future of peace and stability, not only in Europe but also across the world. It will also highlight the extent to which the aggressor — a permanent member of the Council — will respect the United Nations Charter and the tenth Helsinki principle, which requires that obligations under international law be fulfilled in good faith. During our Chairpersonship, we have taken steps to ensure that accountability follows from Russia’s violations of international law, including the unlawful deportation of children. For instance, through the OSCE Support Programme for Ukraine, we have helped to register missing children and support their rehabilitation. While Ukraine has been central to our work in the OSCE, I am happy to report that our engagement with the OSCE region has been broad, with peace mediation at the core of several efforts. In Moldova, we underlined Moldova’s ownership of the Transnistrian settlement process and our support for revitalizing it. We remind Russia of its commitment at the 1999 Istanbul summit to withdraw forces and equipment unconditionally and without delay. The OSCE and its mission stand ready to dismantle the Cobasna arms depot in Transnistria, which also poses an environmental risk to the local population. In the South Caucasus, the world has witnessed positive developments in the peace process between Armenia and Azerbaijan. In August, we reached a consensus to close the Minsk structures dealing with the Nagorno-Karabakh conflict, a vital step to support the peace process. In Georgia, we reaffirmed our commitment to sovereignty and territorial integrity. We addressed democratic backsliding and highlighted the role of civil society. It is for the people of Georgia to decide on their own future. In Central Asia, we shared best practices and experiences from close Nordic cooperation. The trilateral border agreement between Kyrgyzstan, Tajikistan and Uzbekistan is a testament to what good regional cooperation can achieve. In South-Eastern Europe, we supported Bosnia and Herzegovina’s constitutional order, emphasized social dialogue in Serbia and backed efforts to resolve Kosovo’s political and institutional crisis. Moreover, and importantly, we also looked beyond our own region and strengthened ties with the OSCE partners for cooperation, recognizing that Euro- Atlantic stability is interconnected with security and stability in other regions, such as the Indo-Pacific region. There is no need to reinvent the European security order. Instead, there is a need to abide by the OSCE principles we have already agreed to, and to respect international law and the Charter of the United Nations. There is also a need to utilize the OSCE fully, for what it was created for. The OSCE has great potential. Its comprehensive approach, autonomous institutions and 12 field operations prevent conflicts and work to make the collective commitments of the 57 participating States a reality. As the same time, during our chairpersonship Finland has introduced an agenda of reform on the future of the OSCE. The Helsinki+50 discussions have generated broad support, reinforced ownership among participating States and produced concrete reform proposals, some already under implementation. As is the case with the United Nations, the OSCE needs efficiency, flexibility and the ability to deliver. To this end, the new Helsinki+50 fund seeks to strengthen the operational capacity of the OSCE. Multilateral cooperation based on international law can and must be the bedrock for international peace and security. This is also what countries and peoples around the world expect. Effective multilateralism requires a capable and relevant United Nations and effective and relevant regional organizations. While the Council bears primary responsibility for international peace and security, regional efforts can amplify its impact. Indeed, the United Nations Charter itself encourages the settlement of local disputes through regional organizations, before referring them to the Council. As Chairperson of the OSCE, Finland has advanced United Nations-OSCE cooperation under Chapter VIII of the United Nations Charter. The United Nations- OSCE partnership is essential for peace and stability in the Euro-Atlantic region and beyond. The United Nations, the OSCE and their staff continue to cooperate for common goals in various contexts. Being here in New York, I want to commend the United Nations and its staff for their important contribution. To conclude, I would like to end where I began and return to the United Nations Charter and the Helsinki Principles. The world has changed a lot in the past decades and, let us not forget, most of the change has been for the better. The number of countries considered to be free has nearly doubled since 1975, when the Final Act of the Conference on Security and Cooperation in Europe was signed. In the OSCE, the absolute number of independent, democratic and free societies has increased by approximately 15, to more than 40. Across the world, people live longer and are healthier and better educated. They are freer than ever to shape their own future. This is the enduring spirit of the Helsinki Final Act, a spirit that is alive in the hands, hearts and minds of those who dare to believe that freedom is a right for everyone, not a privilege for the few. The power to tear down walls lies with the people. It always has and it always will.

I thank Her Excellency Ms. Valtonen for her briefing. I shall now make a statement in my capacity as the Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Foreign and European Affairs of Slovenia. I would like to thank Minister Valtonen for her comprehensive briefing and to commend her and Finland for the excellent work done since assuming the Organization for Security and Cooperation in Europe (OSCE) chairpersonship, which culminated in the success of the Ministerial Council meeting in Vienna, last week. The OSCE has always had a special place in our hearts, as it was the first international organization that Slovenia joined as an independent country. The OSCE’s work is carried out alongside and in close cooperation with the United Nations. The two organizations share the same fundamental principles and commitments. The OSCE continues to deliver important outcomes for European security. Its valuable and extensive confidence- and security-building measures and its autonomous institutions and field missions contribute to reducing risks, promoting transparency and building confidence. For decades, the OSCE — the largest regional arrangement under Chapter VIII of the Charter of the United Nations — embodied a comprehensive approach to security, an approach that acknowledges that peace is more than the absence of war; an approach that recognizes that true peace requires respect for human rights, democratic governance, media freedom, economic cooperation and environmental responsibility. This unique method of fostering peace places the organization and its participating States in a remarkable position to address contemporary security challenges. The organization can address the accelerating threats to democratic institutions, such as disinformation campaigns and hybrid actions. In addition, the OSCE is capable of addressing climate change and related risks, which are increasingly becoming a threat multiplier. In this connection, I would like to commend Finland for placing the broader triple planetary crisis of climate change, pollution and biodiversity loss high on the OSCE agenda. Slovenia is honoured to have contributed to these discussions as the Chair of the OSCE’s Economic and Environmental Committee this year. Minister Valtonen’s chairpersonship came at a particularly symbolic moment, coinciding with the fiftieth anniversary of the Final Act of the Conference on Security and Cooperation in Europe, a cornerstone of European security and a foundation of the OSCE’s identity. I was honoured to participate at its commemoration conference this summer in Helsinki. However, we marked this historic moment at a time of profound crisis. Russia’s war of aggression against Ukraine constitutes a flagrant violation of the United Nations Charter and the Helsinki Final Act. It has shaken the very foundations of European security. Slovenia supports Finland’s prioritization of Ukraine. We consider it paramount to continue to uphold the principles and commitments of the organization and to monitor closely the war on Ukraine. In this connection, Slovenia welcomes OSCE efforts to ensure full accountability for gross violations of international law, including international humanitarian and human rights law. However, despite very real constraints, the OSCE remains an indispensable instrument in the maintenance of international peace and security. Even in moments of unprecedented political tension, the OSCE is an essential channel for dialogue. That unique organization and its achievements need to be preserved — Europe’s security and prosperity demand it. In conclusion, I wish to express Slovenia’s full support to Switzerland, as the future Chairperson-in-Office, in upholding the effectiveness, resilience and functionality of that truly remarkable organization. I now resume my functions as President of the Council.

I thank you, Madam President, for coming to preside over this important meeting. Let me welcome you back to New York, to the Council, and to congratulate you on Slovenia’s assumption of the presidency for the month of December. You have our full support. I also wish to thank Minister Valtonen for her briefing and for Finland’s leadership as Organization for Security and Cooperation in Europe (OSCE) Chairperson-in-Office this past year. The United Kingdom remains a strong supporter of OSCE cooperation with the United Nations. This year marked 50 years since the signing of the Helsinki Final Act. It enshrined a set of principles on how States should treat each other and their citizens. The anniversary event in Helsinki should have celebrated the decades of peace and stability that these principles helped secure. Instead, it took place amid the biggest war in Europe since the 1940s: Russia’s illegal war of aggression against Ukraine. As we said at the OSCE Ministerial Council last week, Russia has trampled on the Helsinki Final Act and violated every OSCE commitment. Through the OSCE and other multilateral forums, we must maintain relentless scrutiny of Russia’s unjustifiable war and hold it accountable. Thanks to President Trump’s efforts and Ukraine’s constructive engagement, there has been progress towards ending this war. But the journey will be difficult as long as President Putin shows no sign of negotiating in good faith. The United Kingdom remains committed to supporting Ukraine’s pursuit of a just and lasting peace, which safeguards its sovereignty, security and territorial integrity. Should it be called upon, the OSCE has the tools and experience to help Ukraine recover and rebuild — from monitoring ceasefires to decommissioning weapons and supporting veterans’ reintegration. Meanwhile, Russia seeks to weaken Western resolve — a misguided endeavour. Russian proxies have conducted malicious acts of sabotage across Europe, while an industrial scale of information manipulation is designed to destabilize societies. Bilaterally, we are taking robust action to counter these threats. On Thursday, the United Kingdom Government sanctioned the Main Directorate of the General Staff of the Armed Forces of the Russian Federation, in its entirety, and individuals behind State-sponsored hostile acts across Europe, including on United Kingdom soil. This was in response to the publication of the Dawn Sturgess Inquiry in the United Kingdom. That report confirmed that Russia’s reckless use of a military grade nerve agent on United Kingdom soil in 2018 led to the tragic death of a British citizen. These threats are wide-ranging, so for our response to be effective it must be collective. This makes multilateral organizations like the OSCE vital. The OSCE’s principles of cooperation should also help us tackle another growing issue: irregular migration and the illicit finance that fuels it, a top United Kingdom priority. The OSCE could do more to support States to strengthen border security. The principles agreed in Helsinki, alongside the Charter of the United Nations, continue to be the foundation of true security in Europe. The United Kingdom remains steadfast in our support for the OSCE.

I thank you, Madam President, and Minister Valtonen for their participation today. We appreciate Finland’s principled leadership of the Organization for Security and Cooperation in Europe (OSCE) this year, the fiftieth anniversary of the Helsinki Final Act. Minister Valtonen and her teams in Vienna and Helsinki have worked hard to begin to position the OSCE to better respond to current and future challenges. At this time, as the bloodiest war in recent history rages in Europe, organizations that support peace are important. Ending the Russia-Ukraine war is a top priority for President Trump. And it is time to build sustainable peace through negotiation. The killing must stop. We appreciate and welcome the OSCE’s readiness to play a supporting role in this process. As President Trump made clear in his speech at the General Assembly, international organizations need to return to their core mandates, cut bloat and modernize. This includes the OSCE. We commend the steps that Minister Valtonen has taken during her chairpersonship to develop a reform agenda, including in discussions at the ministerial meeting she hosted in Vienna. The OSCE must return to its core mission of promoting peace, preventing wars and increasing prosperity. Narrowing focus and scope logically means tighter resourcing. Fiscal reform and rightsizing of OSCE institutions and missions are important to maximizing effectiveness. We believe that OSCE reform is necessary to ensure that the organization can fulfil its mission of advancing security in Europe and provide a venue where States with divergent visions of society can effectively meet, negotiate and manage their differences. We want to ensure that the OSCE of 2026 and beyond serves as a platform that enables participating States to work on pressing security issues. That includes conventional arms control, border security and countering threats like terrorism, money laundering and trafficking. We need an OSCE that is ready to help secure peace once President Trump succeeds in ending the war between Russia and Ukraine. By continuing the long-standing collaboration between the OSCE and the United Nations, we can leverage our collective strength to address complex global challenges more effectively.

I thank you, Madam President, for presiding over this meeting. I would also like to welcome Her Excellency, Minister Elina Valtonen, to this meeting and to thank her for her insightful briefing as Chairperson-in-Office of the Organization for Security and Cooperation in Europe (OSCE). This year marks the fiftieth anniversary of the Helsinki Final Act, which set the ground for the OSCE as a multilateral framework for dialogue and negotiation on security issues in Europe. On this occasion, Algeria, as a Mediterranean partner for cooperation that actively participated in the negotiations of the 1975 Helsinki Final Act, reaffirms the importance of promoting multilateralism and strengthening cooperation between the Security Council and the OSCE. In the same spirit, Algeria presents every year the General Assembly draft resolution entitled “Strengthening of security and cooperation in the Mediterranean region”. The current context, shaped by increasing conflicts and crisis and escalation of tensions, including the ongoing conflict around Ukraine and the recurrent tensions in the Western Balkans, has generated numerous security, economic and social consequences for the region and beyond. In that regard, we believe that these security challenges require doubling our efforts to uphold regional cooperation as a cornerstone for maintaining international peace and security. Against that backdrop, I would like to highlight the following points. First, it remains important to renew the collective engagement within the OSCE and to reinforce its essential role in promoting regional security and stability. Equally important is the need to effectively overcome the divisions and challenges that impede the work of the organization. Secondly, Algeria highlights the importance of dialogue and negotiation in fostering mutual understanding and developing common ground for addressing shared security concerns, particularly in conflict prevention and resolution. Thirdly, it is crucial to uphold the rules of procedure and established practices of the OSCE, reinforcing its comprehensive and cooperative approach to addressing security challenges. This is vital to maintaining credibility, fostering transparency and ensuring the organization’s effective functioning. Finally, Algeria looks forward to an impactful role for the OSCE in advancing peace and security among participating States, while upholding its core mandates rooted in the principles of the Helsinki Final Act. Turning challenge into opportunity is now more than ever essential to enhancing cooperation and preserving unity for the future of the organization.

We did not expect much from today’s intervention by the Chairperson-in-Office of the Organization for Security and Cooperation in Europe (OSCE), the Minister for Foreign Affairs of Finland, Ms. Elina Valtonen. After all, throughout the year, the Finnish chairpersonship has consistently and systematically exacerbated the crisis in our organization, driving the total Ukrainization of the OSCE agenda to the point of absurdity. As a result, the OSCE does not play a significant role even in those areas in which it has a mandate and potential to do so. Spheres of genuine cooperation have been reduced to extremely narrow and secondary issues. Meanwhile, the OSCE Chairpersonship-in-Office is trying not to notice the elephant in the room, which is the European security crisis provoked by NATO countries, and instead it is groundlessly and contrary to the facts placing the full responsibility for the consequences of these steps solely on Russia. Given all this, should we really be surprised that no one even remembers today our pan-European organization, which 50 years ago laid the groundwork for peaceful coexistence and cooperation in Europe? If this is precisely the goal that the Minister set herself a year ago, then we congratulate her on successfully attaining it. Furthermore, we have unfortunately got used to the fact that, in recent years, statements by the OSCE Chairpersonship-in-Office in this Chamber have been delivered in violation of their mandate, which is clearly spelled out, in particular, in the decision adopted following the 2002 meeting of the OSCE Ministerial Council in Porto, stating that the Chairpersonship-in-Office shall ensure that: “its actions are not inconsistent with positions agreed by all the participating States and that the whole spectrum of opinions of participating States is taken into account”. As she has just clearly demonstrated, our Finnish colleagues are not striving to anything of this sort but rather are advancing on behalf of the OSCE a purely pro-Western, flawed anti- Russian narrative. I would like to remind Ms. Valtonen that the Chairpersonship-in-Office does not have the right to change the parameters of the organization’s work to suit one’s national ambitions nor the wishes of specific groups of countries. After all, there is currently no shared understanding within the OSCE of the root causes of the conflict in Ukraine nor the prospects for resolving it. Consequently, she had no right to speak on this topic on behalf of the OSCE. She has only a couple of weeks left at the helm of the organization, yet, as we have seen today, neither she nor her colleagues have grasped even the basic principles of how the organization functions. The main principle in this regard is that of consensus, which is the cornerstone of all of the work of the OSCE. Under the Finnish leadership, what was promoted actively was the tactic of segmenting discussions into small groups. The objective in that regard is plain as day: to exclude countries that are not to their liking — first and foremost Russia — from these discussions, while laying the groundwork for abandoning the principle of consensus, which is a key OSCE principle. All this was done throughout 2025 under the guise of dubious reforms within the so-called Helsinki+50 process. If the organization continues down this course, we may soon have to speak of the OSCE only in the past tense. I will not spend any time repudiating the anti-Russian insinuations made today in the context of Ukraine; it is crystal clear where things stand with regard to the Ukrainian settlement. The corrupt Ukrainian princeling, who continues to trample on basic human rights and freedoms in Ukraine, is seeking to cling, at any cost, to power and everything he has stolen from his people over the years, even if this would require turning the entire populace into cannon fodder to be used up on the front lines. And his European accomplices, who are doing their utmost to prevent the inglorious collapse of their anti-Russia project, are busy torpedoing the peace efforts of the United States and Russian leaders and undermining the momentous spirit of Anchorage. History will judge them for this mercilessly. Instead, I would like to address the Swiss, who are assuming the OSCE chairpersonship at a decisive moment for the organization. The organization’s future depends largely on them, as does its relevance in the search for a European security formula that would be agreeable to everyone, a process that may begin very soon. One may think: who else but the OSCE — with its mandate, many years of experience and pan-European nature — could play a leading role? However, the OSCE has yet to prove its ability to do so, given how it has discredited itself while demonstrating its uselessness thanks to the efforts of the chairpersonship of Finland and a number of its predecessors. In order to bring the organization back to life, there is much work cut out for us. To do so, we need to cast aside stereotypes and nefarious practices, which are hanging over the organization today like the sword of Damocles. The OSCE must no longer be used as a tool to advance Western interests in the territories east of Vienna. As I already mentioned, what also needs to be stopped is the artificial utter Ukrainization of the OSCE agenda, which has pushed the organization to the sidelines of international affairs. Dialogue and serious, frank discussion within the OSCE is not only possible but also very necessary, not just in Europe, but throughout the world. Only absolutely irresponsible politicians would be uninterested in reducing the level of military and political confrontation and overcoming the divide we see in Europe. They are the ones, who, despite pan-European interests, are without reason portraying Russia as an enemy while trying to make a future war with Russia a core objective for all Europeans. This is madness and an attempt to brainwash the European populace, and this is something that sensible forces on our shared continent are trying to counter through dialogue. We were and remain open to such dialogue. The prerequisite for its successful implementation is our ability to revert to the fundamental principle of indivisible security, which implies the equal right of each participating State to security and the refusal to strengthen one’s own security at the expense of the security of others. As per this cornerstone paradigm, not a single group of States can claim to bear the primary responsibility for maintaining peace and stability in the OSCE region nor view any part of this region as its own sphere of influence. As a result of Western States’ disregard for this principle, a number of important documents agreed upon at the highest level have fallen by the wayside, including the 1999 Charter for European Security and the 2010 Astana commemorative declaration, in which this principle was enshrined. Today, it is quite obvious that the current confrontation over Ukraine could have been avoided if only all the countries that signed the aforementioned agreements had meticulously implemented to them. Instead, the West opted to expand NATO in violation of its OSCE commitments. It is no exaggeration to say that the OSCE stands on the edge of a precipice. Its work across all three security dimensions — military and political, economic and environmental, and humanitarian — has effectively been paralysed. The organization has nearly lost its unique military and political toolkit. Traditional activities to combat global transnational threats are not being implemented, and consensus-based conferences have been replaced by ersatz events. The highly politicized humanitarian basket has been imbued with neoliberal narratives. Under these circumstances, Russia, as an OSCE participating State, has every reason to expect Switzerland to be as equidistant as possible, acting solely on behalf of all 57 participating States. We are counting on the future chairpersonship to facilitate dialogue and cooperation between participating States, as well as to resolve any differences that arise between them. To this end, it is extremely important to safeguard consensus as the basic principle of the OSCE’s work, because without consensus, there will be no organization. We believe that if Bern is genuinely committed to saving this pan-European organization designed to promote cooperation and resolve problems that arise along the way, it is fully capable of finally focusing on unifying cooperation within the OSCE in the coming year, surmounting the negativity that has built up over recent years. We are interested in such a scenario, but we have serious doubts about the ability of our European colleagues to cast aside Russophobia and, for the sake of a peaceful future for our children, do away with the anti-Russian narratives that have been promoted consistently in their countries.

It is an honour for me to welcome you, Madam President, in your capacity as Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Foreign Affairs of Slovenia. We are also pleased to welcome Her Excellency Ms. Elina Valtonen, Minister for Foreign Affairs of Finland, who is with us today in her capacity as Chairperson-in-Office of the Organization for Security and Cooperation in Europe (OSCE). Panama values these opportunities for cooperation among the United Nations and regional and subregional organizations, in accordance with Chapter VIII of the Charter of the United Nations. These links help to build trust and collective responsibility for the maintenance of international peace and security. In this context, 50 years after the Final Act of the Conference on Security and Cooperation in Europe, we share the principles that guide the Organization for Security and Cooperation in Europe: the promotion of peace and security, respect for sovereignty and territorial integrity, the peaceful settlement of disputes, the protection of human rights and the rule of law. This reflects our vision of an international order that respects international law and is committed to dialogue and multilateralism — principles that Panama shares. Panama also takes this opportunity to commend the progress made in the Helsinki+50 process, particularly in the context of the thirty-second Ministerial Council meeting, and recognizes Finland’s leadership in promoting inclusive and results-oriented dialogue. We also appreciate the efforts to promote institutional modernization that strengthens efficiency, ensures timely budgetary processes and enables reforms capable of responding more quickly to current challenges. The geopolitical scenario makes clear that no conflict remains isolated. Despite them occurring far away, they alter the international balance. In the past few years, we have witnessed how the use of force, to the detriment of a State’s sovereignty and territorial integrity, undermines regional stability and, in turn, directly contravenes the fundamental principles enshrined in the Charter of the United Nations. The work and mission of regional organizations such as this one are therefore becoming increasingly relevant. In this regard, Panama values the OSCE’s work in promoting gender equality and prioritizing women’s rights. We value the initiatives undertaken in conjunction with States parties to strengthen the leadership and participation of women mediators and peacebuilders to ensure that these women are fully protected against gender-based violence, including in digital environments, especially today, as, just a few minutes ago, Panama received from Slovenia the coordination of the shared commitments of the women and peace and security agenda for 2026. In conclusion, for Panama, these actions call on us to support all regional and subregional organizations and other local stakeholders that help to ensure that cooperation with the United Nations makes a concrete contribution to navigating a very delicate political context, with the primary objective of maintaining international peace and security.

Let me also thank the Chairperson-in-Office, Minister for Foreign Affairs Valtonen, for her highly valuable briefing and for her dedicated and strong leadership of the Organization for Security and Cooperation in Europe (OSCE) this year. Fifty years ago, in the depths of the cold war, nations from across Europe and beyond came together in common cause to adopt the Final Act of the Conference on Security and Cooperation in Europe. It set a bold vision for the future of Europe — a future defined not by war but by peaceful cooperation through shared values, common rules and norms. Since that day in 1975, the OSCE has worked tirelessly to turn this vision into a reality. Fifty years later, our aspiration for a peaceful and stable Europe endures. However, today that aspiration is under direct assault by one of OSCE’s own members. Russia’s illegal war in Ukraine is a violation of the very principles upon which the OSCE was built. No region will ever be truly safe if borders can be changed by brute force. The OSCE has been vital in supporting accountability efforts in Ukraine. The OSCE’s Moscow Mechanism has documented severe violations of human rights and international humanitarian law by Russian forces in Ukraine. This important work must continue. History has taught us that the documentation of war crimes matters for accountability, and accountability matters for building just and lasting peace. The vast majority of OSCE members are united in their support for Ukraine’s sovereignty, territorial integrity and political independence. Russia, on the other hand, continues to dismiss calls for a ceasefire and shows no willingness to achieve peace. Instead, Russia insists on unacceptable demands while relentlessly attacking Ukrainian civilians and critical infrastructure. It is not only in Ukraine that Russia is causing instability. Hybrid activities against the European Union and its neighbouring countries have increased. The endangering of Moldova’s democracy is one clear example of that. Despite Russia’s efforts, the people of Moldova continue to cooperate actively with the OSCE and have chosen to move resolutely towards membership of the European Union. They have our full support. In closing, Denmark remains steadfast in our commitment to the OSCE and its goal of promoting dialogue and cooperation in Europe. From Moldova to the Western Balkans, from Central Asia to the South Caucasus, the OSCE has been working tirelessly for the security of the people in Europe and beyond; for example, by developing standard-setting mechanisms in the field of conventional arms control and election monitoring. This year’s anniversary is therefore not only a moment of remembrance but a call for renewed purpose. We still believe in a peaceful Europe, we still believe in sovereign equality and territorial integrity, and we still believe in dialogue instead of war. We urge Russia to return to those principles and to recommit to security and economic collaboration in Europe.

I welcome you, Madam President, as you preside over today’s meeting, and I listened attentively to the briefing by the Chairperson-in-Office of Organization for Security and Cooperation in Europe (OSCE) and Minister for Foreign Affairs of Finland, Her Excellency Ms. Valtonen. At present, the global security landscape keeps deteriorating, marked by worsening geopolitical conflicts, constant flare-ups of hotspot issues, the significant rise of unilateralism and protectionism and traditional and non-traditional interlocking and compounding security threats. In this context, it is crucial for the United Nations and regional organizations, including the OSCE, to further strengthen cooperation, demonstrate commitment and diligently fulfil their mandates. Together, they must bring more stability and certainty to this era of turbulence and change, making their due contributions to the maintenance of international peace and security. For its part, China has proposed the Global Security Initiative. Given the current circumstances, it is important for the international community to champion a vision of common, comprehensive, cooperative, and sustainable security; take seriously and address properly the legitimate and reasonable security concerns of one another; maintain security in both traditional and non-traditional domains in an integrated manner; stay committed to the principle of indivisible security; coordinate efforts to advance global security governance and strive to achieve universal and common security. Secondly, we should all be practitioners of multilateralism. Various forms of confrontation and injustice exist in the world today, not because the purposes and principles of the Charter of the United Nations have become anachronistic, but because of the failure to safeguard and implement them effectively. The international community should practise true multilateralism; abide by the purposes and principles of the United Nations Charter; stand resolutely behind the international system, with the United Nations at its core, the international order underpinned by international law and the basic norms governing international relations based on the purposes and principles of the Charter; and defend the authority of the United Nations and its status as the principal platform for global security governance. Thirdly, we should all be facilitators of dialogue and cooperation. In an ever- changing and turbulent world, what we need is peace, not war; trust, not mistrust; unity, not division; and cooperation, not confrontation. The international community should support dialogue and consultation, jointly reject the cold war mentality and bloc confrontation, facilitate peace talks and engage in mediation based on the needs and will of the countries concerned and encourage parties to conflict to build trust, address disputes and promote security through dialogue. Many Council members today have spoken about the Ukraine crisis. China’s position on that issue has been consistent and crystal clear. Dialogue and negotiations are the only viable pathway to resolve the Ukraine crisis. China supports all efforts conducive to peace and will continue to play — in its own way — a constructive role in the political settlement of the crisis. China supports the relevant actors in fulfilling their roles to help shape a balanced, effective and sustainable European security architecture.

I welcome you, Madam President, to the Security Council. I also thank Her Excellency Ms. Elina Valtonen, Chairperson-in- Office of the Organization for Security and Cooperation in Europe (OSCE) for her compelling briefing today. As we commemorate the fiftieth anniversary of the Helsinki Final Act, this milestone invites us to reflect not only on the continued relevance of its principles but also on the need to adapt them to suit a constantly evolving security landscape. The OSCE’s comprehensive approach to security — encompassing the politico- military, economic, environmental and human dimensions — aligns closely with the commitment of the United Nations to multilateralism. These shared foundations are especially pertinent as we address today’s complex regional and global challenges. The Helsinki spirit, which enabled cooperation even amid the deepest divisions of the cold war, continues to serve as a reliable compass as we navigate today’s fractured landscape. At the same time, developments in one region increasingly reverberate across others, with the security of Europe and the Indo-Pacific becoming more closely interconnected than ever before. In this broader context, the ongoing conflict in Ukraine continues to cast a large shadow over regional stability and humanitarian conditions. As hostilities persist, with grave consequences for civilians and civilian infrastructure, the situation highlights the need to uphold international humanitarian law and to end the war immediately. In that connection, we recall that the OSCE was founded on core principles, including respect for sovereignty and territorial integrity, the inviolability of frontiers and the peaceful settlement of disputes. The Republic of Korea stresses the importance of facilitating an eventual cessation of hostilities and advancing efforts towards a sustainable peace. We encourage all parties to re-engage in meaningful dialogue to prevent further suffering. Pursuant to Chapter VIII of the Charter of the United Nations, enhanced cooperation with regional organizations such as the OSCE is indispensable for sustaining effective multilateralism and addressing today’s interconnected peace and security issues. As the world’s largest regional security organization, the OSCE continues to make a meaningful contribution through its field operations and programmes in the Western Balkans, the Caucasus and Central Asia, supporting conflict prevention, dialogue facilitation and democratic resilience. These activities also demonstrate the OSCE’s continued relevance. Even within existing constraints, the organization continues to evolve and provide practical platforms for dialogue, prevention and cooperation. Its broad approach to security remains pertinent to emerging risks. Hybrid challenges, disinformation and new technologies are reshaping security in ways that affect not only military domains but also societal resilience, shared values and democratic institutions. These developments reinforce the necessity for the OSCE to continually adapt its holistic approach to security and strengthen collective responses to these multidimensional risks. For its part, the Republic of Korea has been actively engaged in security cooperation with the OSCE as a Partner for Cooperation since 1994. Building on this long-standing partnership, my Government was pleased to contribute to recent interregional exchanges, including through the Korea-OSCE interregional conference in May and the OSCE Asian Conference this November. In this rapidly changing security environment, the Republic of Korea reaffirms its strong commitment to strengthening cooperation between the United Nations and the OSCE and to advancing our shared goal of durable peace, stability and effective multilateralism across regions. Moreover, the OSCE’s accumulated experience in dialogue, conflict prevention and confidence-building offers meaningful insights for Northeast Asia. The Republic of Korea views the Helsinki spirit and the OSCE’s practices as valuable references for promoting peace and stability on the Korean Peninsula and in the wider region. These lessons will continue to inform Korea’s efforts to work with the international community on advancing peace.

I would like to thank Minister Elina Valtonen, Chairperson-in-Office of the Organization for Security and Cooperation in Europe (OSCE) for her briefing. This year marks the fiftieth anniversary of the Helsinki Final Act and the thirty- fifth anniversary of the Charter of Paris for a New Europe. The adoption of these foundational documents enshrined our collective commitment to peace and security in Europe, based on common principles. Today, those principles are being flouted by Russia. For nearly four years, Russia has been pursuing its war of aggression against Ukraine, threatening the stability of the entire continent, in flagrant violation of international law, the Charter of the United Nations and its own commitments under the Helsinki Final Act. France reiterates its full support for the OSCE amid this assault on its very essence. The OSCE plays a central role in the security of the European continent. The institutions and instruments of the OSCE’s human dimension are essential for documenting the crimes committed by Russia in Ukraine. The Moscow Mechanism, triggered six times since 2022, has highlighted Russia’s massive violations of human rights and international humanitarian law, including the deportation of Ukrainian children to Russia and the mistreatment of Ukrainian prisoners of war. The OSCE must be able to carry out its mandate to prevent and resolve conflicts in Europe without fear of reprisals. France reiterates its call for the immediate release of all prisoners of war and civilians arbitrarily detained by Russia, including the three OSCE staff members illegally detained. France reiterates its unwavering support for Ukraine’s sovereignty, independence and territorial integrity, and reaffirms its commitment to a just and lasting peace, in accordance with international law. The OSCE plays a key role in the security of the European continent, particularly through its field missions. In the Western Balkans, in Central Asia and in Moldova, its activities directly benefit local populations by strengthening local institutional capacities and promoting the rule of law. In Ukraine, despite Russia’s obstruction of the field mission’s activities, the OSCE has been able to put in place a useful, concrete and agile instrument: the Special Programme for Ukraine. Through the Programme, the OSCE supports humanitarian demining, strengthens the Ukrainian authorities’ ability to prosecute in court crimes committed by Russia and reinforces Ukrainian cybersecurity capabilities. All of these actions provide assistance to the Ukrainian people and bolster the country’s resilience. In the South Caucasus, France reiterates its support for the peace process between Armenia and Azerbaijan. The OSCE has a role to play in supporting the process of normalizing relations between the two countries, in accordance with international law and the territorial integrity of both States. France also welcomes the OSCE’s commitment to Georgia and its participation in the Geneva International Discussions, the only legitimate platform for addressing the consequences of the conflict between Russia and Georgia since 2008. Cooperation between the OSCE and the United Nations, under Chapter VIII of the Charter, is based on the convergence of the principles of these two organizations and the defence of a common approach combining security, development and human rights. Fifty years after the signing of the Helsinki Final Act, the founding principles of the OSCE remain fully relevant to ensuring security in Europe. It is our duty to defend them. France commends the efforts of the Finnish OSCE chairpersonship and the OSCE Secretary General to maintain the smooth functioning of the organization despite the many challenges it faces today. Mr. Osman (Somalia): I wish to thank the Slovenian presidency for convening this annual briefing. I also want to welcome Her Excellency Ms. Elina Valtonen, Minister for Foreign Affairs of Finland and the Chairperson-in-Office of the Organization for Security and Cooperation in Europe (OSCE), and thank her for her insights on the region’s current priorities and challenges. Somalia recognizes the critical role that regional and intergovernmental organizations play in maintaining stability. As highlighted by the diverse experience of the Council members, regional bodies possess a unique and deep understanding of the specific security dynamics, history and root causes of conflict within their regions. We value the OSCE’s comprehensive definition of security — an approach that rightly acknowledges that true stability is not merely political or military but also relies on economic development, the sustainable use of rural resources and full respect for human rights. This holistic approach is invaluable to global peace. Strengthening cooperation between the United Nations and regional and subregional organizations is an integral part of the Charter of the United Nations and an important part of multilateralism. Somalia supports the cooperation of the United Nations and the Security Council with regional organizations, including the OSCE, in accordance with the United Nations Charter, in order to effectively tackle challenges to international peace and security. Drawing from our own perspective in Africa, we see the immense value in such partnership. Just as the collaboration between the United Nations and the African Union is vital for silencing the guns on our continent, the partnership between the United Nations and the OSCE is essential for the European security architecture. We believe that commitment to these shared goals transcends regional boundaries. We are, however, mindful that the OSCE is currently operating in an environment characterized by complex political dynamics. We note the concern raised regarding the functionality of the organization and the need to reach consensus on critical institutional issues to ensure its continued effectiveness. In that regard, Somalia wishes to emphasize three points. First, we join other Council members in urging all parties to fully commit to diplomatic engagement as the only path to sustainable peace. Dialogue is the very essence of effective multilateralism. Secondly, we commend the focus of the Chairperson-in-Office on the human dimension of security. We welcome the emphasis on the women and peace and security and the youth, peace and security agendas. Ensuring the full participation of women and youth is not only a matter of rights but a prerequisite for lasting conflict resolution and peacebuilding. Thirdly, respect for established rules and impartiality is vital for the credibility of any regional organization. We encourage the OSCE to continue its efforts to advocate for justice and the rule of law. In conclusion, regional leadership is essential in supporting the efforts of the Council. Somalia reiterates its support for strengthening the relationship between the United Nations and the OSCE. It is important to work together to find pathways for lasting peace in Europe and beyond, and we remain committed in that endeavour.

I would like to start by thanking the Minister for Foreign Affairs of Finland, Ms. Elina Valtonen, Chairperson-in-Office of the Organization for Security and Cooperation in Europe (OSCE) for her briefing. Since the OSCE Ministerial Council meeting took place just a few days ago, I would like to start by commending Finland for the OSCE chairpersonship under these challenging circumstances. The guiding principles under the motto “Respect, Respond, Prepare”, which were placed by the Chairperson-in-Office at the centre of its efforts to reinvigorate the OSCE’s work, paved the way to structuring a dialogue on the future of the organization. Greece believes in the OSCE’s unique identity and role based on the Helsinki principles. Through its comparative advantages, in particular its comprehensive approach to security, its structures, its autonomous institutions, such as the Office for Democratic Institutions and Human Rights which works across the OSCE region to strengthen security by protecting and promoting democracy and human rights, as well as its field operations, the OSCE remains well placed in the multilateral system and in the context of international efforts aiming at achieving genuine, sustainable security. Greece recognizes the important contribution of regional intergovernmental organizations for the maintenance of international peace and security in the framework of Chapter VIII of the Charter of the United Nations. As one of the original signatories of the Helsinki Final Act and an active OSCE member since 1973, Greece strongly supports the enduring partnership between the OSCE and the Security Council based on the 1993 Framework for cooperation and coordination between the United Nations Secretariat and the Conference on Security and Cooperation in Europe. The OSCE continues to deliver important outcomes for European security by reducing risks, promoting transparency, building confidence and functioning as a platform for dialogue on security in the region. Allow me to focus on the role of the OSCE in addressing the most important conflict in its region, namely the war of aggression of Russia against Ukraine, as well as on the results of the partnership between the OSCE and the Security Council in addressing other regional conflicts in Europe. Greece welcomes the OSCE support for Ukraine and commends Finland’s chairpersonship for its choice to continue prioritizing Ukraine and closely monitoring the war on the ground. Moreover, we commend the uninterrupted OSCE engagement with Ukraine through its Support Programme for Ukraine, which was launched to address immediate challenges to civilians posed by the war and to support the long- term democratic and social resilience of Ukraine’s institutions and civil society. In this regard, let me echo all of those calling for the immediate release of the three OSCE staff members who remain illegally detained by the Russian authorities. Greece also welcomes the OSCE’s role in addressing protracted conflicts in the region. The 8 August agreements reached between Armenia and Azerbaijan in Washington, D.C., including their joint decision regarding the conclusion of the OSCE Minsk Group’s mandate, represent a significant and welcome first step towards lasting peace and stability in the region. These developments demonstrate that both sides are prepared to move forward and address the legacy of conflict. As these processes advance, the OSCE remains well placed to contribute through its experience in dialogue, facilitation, confidence-building and support for cooperative security. It is now essential to maintain momentum. The initial peace agreement must be signed without delay. All remaining outstanding issues must be resolved in accordance with international law, including the principles of sovereignty and territorial integrity. We support the work of OSCE field missions in Central Asia and the Western Balkans, as well as its facilitating role for a peaceful settlement of the conflicts in Moldova and Georgia. In our immediate neighborhood, the Western Balkans, we commend the critical role of the OSCE mission in Kosovo, under the mandate of resolution 1244 (1999), towards the promotion of human rights and enhancing inter- ethnic dialogue. In conclusion, in its capacity as both an OSCE member and an elected member of the Council, Greece stands ready to work further to enhance the partnership between the OSCE and the Security Council within the framework of Chapter VIII of the Charter of the United Nations.

I would also like to welcome the Chairperson-in-Office of the Organization for Security and Cooperation in Europe (OSCE), the Minister for Foreign Affairs of Finland, Ms. Elina Valtonen, to this meeting and thank her for her briefing. Pakistan recognizes the OSCE’s historic legacy and the valuable work that this organization has undertaken for the advancement of peace and security, the maintenance of stability and the promotion of good neighbourly relations among its members in the Eurasian region. Forged in the spirit of the Helsinki Final Act, the OSCE established an indispensable framework for fostering dialogue, promoting confidence-building and advancing peaceful dispute resolution in the post-war era, an era marred by an acute trust and security deficit. We note with appreciation the OSCE’s peacebuilding efforts, including in eastern European countries, thus bringing stability to the region. The OSCE’s pioneering work in the field of confidence- building measures also served as a blueprint for similar efforts undertaken by other regional organizations. Today the foundational ethos of international relations, multilateralism, cooperation and indivisible security, as envisaged in the preamble of the Helsinki Final Act, is perhaps facing its biggest challenge in decades. The OSCE, too, is navigating a difficult geopolitical landscape with conflict raging in the heart of Europe for nearly four years, the depletion of trust and unprecedented strains on peaceful coexistence. We are cognizant of the dramatic shift in realities and power dynamics that exist today. However, my delegation is of the view that it is precisely in these times that we must rekindle the spirit of Helsinki, avoid confrontation, invest more in dialogue and diplomacy and renew our unwavering commitment to crafting mutually agreed confidence- and security-building measures. This is not a matter of choice but a strategic imperative to lower tensions, rebuild essential channels of communication and demonstrate that comprehensive security is best preserved through cooperative instruments and not by the pursuit of hegemony and domination through military means. Objective, inclusive and impartial principles-based approaches are indispensable for success. Effective partnership also goes beyond coordination. It is about leveraging complementary strengths for conflict prevention, transnational threat response and post-conflict stabilization, always grounded in the core principles of the Charter of the United Nations. Our principled approach on matters related to cooperation between the United Nations and regional organizations is informed by the value that we believe these organizations bring to the work of the United Nations, including in the maintenance of international peace and security. To that end, we support the OSCE’s cooperation with the United Nations, consistent with Chapter VIII of the Charter of the United Nations. We believe that the United Nations, the regional organizations and all United Nations Member States must prioritize and invest more in conflict prevention and the pacific settlement of disputes, as reaffirmed by the Council recently in resolution 2788 (2025). The path forward demands a conscious choice, choosing cooperation over confrontation, dialogue over division and inclusive security over bloc-based divides. Pakistan hopes that the OSCE will continue to champion this cause and this choice and that the Council will support such a partnership that reaffirms our shared commitment to a stable and just global order, underpinned by international law and an unwavering commitment to multilateralism with the United Nations at its core.

I welcome Your Excellency Ms. Tanja Fajon, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Slovenia, to the Council and thank you for convening this meeting. I also thank Her Excellency Ms. Elina Valtonen, Minister for Foreign Affairs of Finland, in her capacity as the current Chairperson-in-Office of the Organization for Security and Cooperation in Europe (OSCE), for her briefing on the activities of the OSCE. This year’s annual briefing of the OSCE Chairperson-in-Office is especially important as we celebrate the fiftieth anniversary of the signing of the Helsinki Final Act, which laid the foundation for the organization. More than ever, the principles of freedom, democracy and human rights must be central to all our efforts to address the complex challenges facing the region and the world at large. At a time when security crises across the European continent have highlighted significant breaches of international law, including international humanitarian law, as well as complex cultural and ethnic differences, Sierra Leone welcomes the OSCE’s efforts to strengthen cooperation with the United Nations. We recognize that the Council’s engagement with the OSCE is crucial in fostering dialogue and cooperation on key security challenges in the Euro-Atlantic and Eurasia regions. We commend the leadership demonstrated in this regard by Finland as the 2025 Chairperson-in-Office and welcome Switzerland as incoming Chairperson-in-Office for 2026. Sierra Leone echoes the call from 50 years ago for the primacy of diplomacy and cooperation in securing a peaceful and prosperous Europe. We commend the OSCE’s effort to promote security, stability and cooperation in the region, including its efforts to address the Russia-Ukraine conflict. We join others in stating that this conflict must end now, and we urge the parties to engage in good-faith dialogue and mediation towards an immediate cessation of hostilities, a ceasefire and lasting and sustainable peace. We emphasize the importance of OSCE-United Nations cooperation in providing a valuable space for dialogue and securing critical guarantees for sustainable and just peace. Sierra Leone also recognizes the importance of the OSCE’s effort to address human rights violations and humanitarian concerns in the context of the Ukraine- Russia conflict through the OSCE Moscow Mechanism, as well as in other conflict- affected areas. We support the organization’s efforts to promote international human rights law, accountability and justice across Europe. Sierra Leone takes note of the Chairperson-in-Office’s other outlined priorities, including implementing reforms for better organizational efficiency and effectiveness and strengthening democracy to improve civic participation. We commend the leadership of Finland on the Helsinki+50 discussions on the future of the OSCE, which have laid a solid foundation for organizational effectiveness and for reaffirming the principles of the 1975 Final Act of the Conference on Security and Cooperation in Europe. We have no doubt that Switzerland will provide continued leadership in this regard, including consensus on a unified budget. This remains critical for achieving the organization’s strategic objectives in addressing the devastating effects of armed conflict, which go beyond immediate humanitarian responses during the conflict to post-conflict reconstruction and peacebuilding efforts that address the drivers of the conflict. Recalling Sierra Leone’s priorities on the Council, we also welcome advancement in discussions on the women and peace and security and the youth, peace and security agendas, which culminated in the OSCE-wide road map for the implementation of commitments on women and peace and security. Underpinned by resolution 1325 (2000), this forward-looking strategy actively promotes gender equality and strengthens women’s participation, protection and rights across the entire conflict cycle. In closing, Sierra Leone fully supports OSCE’s work in conflict mediation and regional cooperation and its mission to uphold security and human rights. We remain committed to constructive involvement in strengthening efforts towards global peace and security.

I welcome you to the Security Council, Madam President. I also welcome Her Excellency Ms. Elina Valtonen, Chairperson-in-Office of the Organization for Security and Cooperation in Europe (OSCE) and Minister for Foreign Affairs of Finland, and thank her for the informative briefing. I also commend Finland for its capable leadership as Chairperson-in-Office of the OSCE over this past year and extend best wishes to Switzerland as it prepares to assume the Chairpersonship of the organization in just a few weeks. As an organization that works to promote stability, peace and democracy in Europe, the OSCE is confronting one of the most challenging periods, if not the most challenging, since its founding. Even in this context, with the largest war on the continent since the Second World War and heightened tensions affecting other States, we are confident that the OSCE will continue to make positive strides in contributing to regional security. The OSCE’s broad-based, comprehensive approach to security ensures that it is equipped to confront these challenges and to contribute to efforts to resolve conflicts and pursue lasting peace. Whether through its extrabudgetary support programme to address the immediate security needs and long-term stability of Ukraine, the EmPOWER Local Women Politicians Programme of its Mission in Kosovo or its regional workshop on building energy system resilience, the OSCE’s work on the ground is a demonstration of its understanding that security threats are multifaceted and thus require multidimensional solutions. Europe’s security challenges have multiplied in recent years. The Russia- Ukraine conflict has continued for nearly four years, causing incalculable suffering and upending the lives of millions of civilians. The normalization of relations between Kosovo and Serbia remains elusive, and in several other countries, we have witnessed peaceful demonstrations for change being responded to with excessive force. Guyana has always been consistent in advocating for the pacific settlement of disputes and continues to call on parties to conflicts and hostilities to lay down their arms and engage in good-faith negotiations. We also call upon political leaders to abide by their obligations to respect the rule of law and to uphold human rights and fundamental freedoms. We take note of the expression of readiness by several OSCE member States at the recent Ministerial Council meeting of the organization to play a role in implementing a potential peace agreement between Ukraine and the Russian Federation and hope that this will lead to positive outcomes for the countries concerned and the region. Guyana has always had a deep understanding and appreciation for the role that regional and subregional organizations such as the OSCE play in addressing security challenges and enhancing stability in the countries of the regions in which they operate. Our tenure on the Security Council has solidified our belief that regional leadership is essential in achieving and sustaining peace, and regional and subregional organizations are therefore an invaluable partner to the Security Council in the execution of its mandate. Guyana urges the OSCE to continue its cooperation with the United Nations. Even as it prepares to conclude its tenure on the Security Council at the end of the month, Guyana will remain steadfast in its dedication to upholding the core principles that foster peace and security. We will continue to advocate for democracy; emphasize the importance of respect for international law, including international humanitarian law; and champion the sovereignty and territorial integrity of all States. By adhering to these principles, each nation can play a meaningful role in securing enduring peace.