Statement by H.E. Sanita Pavļuta-Deslandes, Permanent Representative of Latvia to the United Nations at the UN Security Council Briefing on Threats to International Peace and Security (Romania)
New York, 1 June 2026
Thank you, Madam President,
Let me start by congratulating Colombia on the start of your Presidency of the UN Security Council and wish you all success.
We also express our appreciation to China for the steadfast leadership for steering the work of this council for the month of May.
I thank Colombia for convening this emergency meeting.
And I welcome her Excellency, Ms Oana-Silvia Țoiu, Minister of Foreign Affairs of Romania to this meeting.
I thank Director Gotoh for the factual briefing.
This is the fourth time in the last two weeks this Council meets to condemn the aggressive and escalatory actions of one of its permanent members – Russia.
It is also the third time since September last year that this Council has met not at the request of Ukraine, but at the request of another neighbouring country, because of the dangers arising from Russia’s war of aggression against Ukraine. Russia’s reckless violations of European airspace are well-documented and known to all members of this Council. This is neither the first such incident, nor an isolated occurrence in our region.
Latvia condemns in the strongest possible terms this latest dangerous escalation by Russia.
Latvia supported Romania’s request to bring this matter before the Council because this is the first time the Council has been called upon to address Russia injuring civilians in a neighbouring country as a direct consequence of its large-scale aerial attacks against Ukraine. On 28th and 29th of May, one of the many Russian armed drones used in attacks against Ukraine, entered Romanian airspace and exploded on the roof of a residential apartment building. Two civilians are injured, including a child, and approximately 70 people were forced to leave their homes.
Latvia stands in full solidarity with Romania, our fellow EU and NATO ally, and with all those affected by this unacceptable incident. We wish a speedy recovery to those injured.
Russia’s rhetoric and actions demonstrate no genuine commitment to peace.
Russia’s rhetoric and actions show no consideration for legitimate security concerns of its neighbours.
On the contrary, Russia – a permanent member of this Council –poses itself a grave threat to international peace and security. This will continue to be the case, so long as Russia continues to persistently undermine the sovereignty, territorial integrity and security of neighbouring states.
Madam President,
Unable to reach any strategic goals in its war of choice against Ukraine, Russia has turned its aggression into a full-scale war against Ukraine’s civilians and civilian infrastructure. Advanced weapons, including systems capable of carrying nuclear warheads, are used to commit war crimes - against families and children, as well as cultural and education institutions. Attacks against UN personnel and premises are increasing. Diplomatic missions are not spared.
The repeated violations of European airspace by Russia are further evidence of Russia’s irresponsibility and desperation. As are the blatant lies, intimidation and threats against neighbours to hide failures on the battlefield, and a crumbling war economy. Russia’s readiness to escalate tensions and take ever-greater risks to salvage its failing war are unacceptable.
Madam President,
The time of empires, colonies and spheres of influence is over.
Russia’s aggression was not provoked. Neither NATO, nor the European Union, nor Ukraine has threatened Russia. This war of aggression is entirely of Russia’s choice. Russia bears full responsibility for the risks, consequences, and human suffering resulting from its illegal military actions, including when they extend beyond Ukraine’s borders.
Together with our allies and partners, we will continue to strengthen European defence, deterrence, and resilience. We remain committed to ensuring that any reckless actions, provocations or attempts to undermine our sovereignty, territorial integrity and political independence are met with a firm and united response.
Today’s meeting once again demonstrates that Ukraine’s security is inseparable from the security of the wider European continent. Russia’s escalatory rhetoric and actions only reinforce our resolve to support Ukraine and its right to sovereignty, territorial integrity and political independence. Ukraine is defending its right to exist, in line with the UN Charter.
It is vital to increase pressure on Russia and those enabling its war of aggression. The path to peace begins with an immediate, full, and unconditional ceasefire. We call on this Council and all United Nations member states to use their influence constructively to advance peace, uphold the principles of the UN Charter, and contribute to a just and lasting peace for Ukraine.
I thank you.