Statement by H.E. Ms. Thorgerdur Katrin Gunnarsdottir,
the Minister for Foreign Affairs of Iceland
The fourth annual High-level Side Event on Accountability for Ukraine
during the High-level week of the 80th Session of the General Assembly
24 September, 2025



Excellencies, colleagues,  

Ensuring accountability is a central element in reaching a just and lasting peace in Ukraine.  

It is not only about justice for victims - which of course is crucial - it is also about upholding international law, deterring future crimes, and restoring faith in a system where rules, not force, prevail. 

An historic step towards this end was taken two years ago in Reykjavík with the creation of a Register of Damage caused by the Aggression of the Russian Federation against Ukraine. 

More recently, the establishment of the Special Tribunal for the Crime of Aggression against Ukraine, within the framework of the Council of Europe, in another major milestone in ensuring that those responsible are held to account.  

Let me assure you that Iceland is fully committed to supporting these accountability processes and ensuring that international law is upheld. 

Perhaps the most harrowing side of Russia´s war has been the forcible transfer and deportation by Russia of Ukrainian children. These are not just legal violations; they are crimes with lasting personal and societal impact. It is our collective responsibility to uphold justice and hold Russia accountable.  

Last week, the Register of Damage took an important step in this regard by establishing new claims categories designated for individuals – both children and adults - who were forcibly transferred within Ukraine or deported outside of Ukraine by Russia. 

To conclude – we must all agree that justice needs to be a central part of any peace process.  

Iceland stands firmly with Ukraine and supports every effort to ensure accountability, ensure justice for victims, and secure a peaceful future grounded in law, not impunity.