Ambassador Holland highlights Russia's intensified attacks on
Ukrainian civilians, unlawful detentions—including OSCE staff—and
systematic violations documented by ODIHR. The UK urges Russia to
respect international law and end its campaign of aggression
against Ukraine.
"Thank you, Mr Chair.
As we conclude this year's work at the Permanent Council, the UK
wishes to reiterate its profound concern at Russia's ongoing
campaign against Ukraine, and the grave consequences for
civilians, including the OSCE's own staff, and respect for
international law.
This week's Eighth Interim Report from ODIHR documents a further
intensification of Russia's use of explosive weapons with wide
area effects in urban areas, resulting in a sharp rise in
civilian casualties and widespread destruction of critical
infrastructure. ODIHR's findings are clear: from June to November
2025, verified civilian casualties in Ukrainian
Government-controlled areas increased by 40% compared to the
previous six months. The report also details systematic attacks
on humanitarian operations, arbitrary detention, enforced
disappearances, torture, and conflict-related sexual violence
perpetrated by Russian authorities. For instance, during the
second half of 2025, ODIHR documented 21 testimonies of
conflict-related sexual violence committed by members of the
Russian armed forces or Russian authorities. For the first time,
ODIHR documented evidence of female detainees being coerced by
detention facility administration into sexual acts in exchange
for food and cigarettes.
Russia has intensified its attacks even as peace talks continue,
including strikes on medical facilities, schools, and energy
infrastructure. The humanitarian situation continues to
deteriorate, with access to water, electricity, and essential
services severely restricted, particularly in Russian-occupied
territories where independent international actors face
significant barriers to access.
ODIHR's report highlights the arbitrary detention of Ukrainian
civilians in Russian-occupied territories, which corresponds to
the constitutive elements of hostage-taking. On this topic, Mr
Chair, I want to reiterate the UK's concern about the continued
unlawful detention of OSCE SMM staff: Vadym Golda, Maxim Petrov,
and Dmytro Shabanov. We urge the Russian authorities to release
our OSCE colleagues – and all arbitrarily detained civilians –
and allow them to return home to their families. Their continued
detention is an affront to the principles of this organisation.
The path to peace requires Russia to cease its attacks on
civilians and critical infrastructure, respect Ukraine's
sovereignty and territorial integrity, end forced deportations
and arbitrary detentions, and return to full compliance with
international law, including the Helsinki Final Act.
Mr Chair, the UK hopes this is the last time we must address the
Permanent Council against the backdrop of Russia's war. The only
obstacle to peace is Russia's continued determination to wage a
war of aggression. The suffering must end.
Thank you."
