Brutal aggression against Ukraine – One Year On
Today, the 24th of February, marks one year since the launch of Russia’s full-scale war of aggression against Ukraine. On this occasion, the international community has come together to show solidarity and support for the Ukrainian people.
Þórdís Kolbrún Reykfjörð Gylfadóttir, Minister for Foreign Affairs of Iceland and President of the Committee of Ministers of the Council of Europe, took part in a special programme organized jointly by Iceland and Ukraine at the Council of Europe in Strasbourg. Member states of the Council of Europe agreed to take the first steps towards the establishment of a register of damage for Ukraine, under the auspices of or with the assistance of the Council of Europe. The register would record damage, loss or injury as a result of Russia’s aggression against Ukraine and would be an important step to ensure accountability.
In addition to the extraordinary meeting of the Committee of Ministers, broadcast live for the first time, the Minister attended a number of events where the consequences of Russia’s aggression, accountability and the upcoming fourth summit of Heads of State and Government in Reykjavik were discussed. The Minister opened a special photo exhibition at the Council in honour of Ukraine and addressed a special meeting of the OSCE via videolink.
Yesterday, Iceland informed the government of Ukraine of its decision to join the core group dedicated to achieving accountability for Russia’s aggression against Ukraine.. Iceland was among states that appealed the situation in Ukraine to the International Criminal Court where an investigation has been launched into war crimes, crimes against humanity and genocide in Ukraine. Investigation and prosecution of crimes related to the aggression is well underway in Ukrainian courts.
The Permanent Secretary of State of Iceland, Martin Eyjólfsson, also took part in deliberations at the UN General Assembly in New York, where a resolution calling for lasting peace in Ukraine was adopted with great majority.