Explanation of vote by the delegation of Ukraine following adoption of new sanctions on North Korea
Ukraine welcomes the unanimous adoption of resolution2375 in response to the sixth nuclear test conducted by DPRK. We commend the strong US leadership which made this adoption happen.
I just want to use this opportunity also to express Ukraine’s solidarity with the people and Government of the United States as they commemorate the 16th anniversary of 9/11. I’m proud that Ukraine was able to contribute to the Council’s reaction to that horrible terrorist act back in 2001 as a non-permanent member of the Council, including by providing our Mission’s premises for the Council’s urgent consultations.
North Korea’s advancing nuclear and ballistic missile programs still remains the most significant proliferation challenge at the global scale. Moreover, the increasing militarization has already severely impacted and continues to threaten the livelihoods of the population of DPRK. Besides continuously diverting the resources from the acute human needs to feeding its nuclear arsenal, DPRK succeeded in sanctions evasion. Therefore, we fully support imposing new, robust measures against the North-Korean regime, along with strengthening the already existing prohibitions and restrictions. Our today’s decision clearly proves that the Council remains united and decisive in its response to the growing nuclear threat on the Korean peninsula as well as in its intention to avoid affecting the people of North Korea.
I wish to reiterate the key importance of full and comprehensive implementation of all Council’s resolutions related to DPRK by all Member States to exclude the risk of further provocations, and curb rampant nuclear and missile ambitions of Pyongyang.
Ukraine voted for the resolution trusting that any responsible member of the international community must spare no effort in restoring respect for international law and finding solutions to counter the greatest threats to global peace and security.
Thank you.