Statement 

by the Delegation of Ukraine at the informal meeting on the

intergovernmental negotiations on the question of equitable

representation on and increase in the membership of the Security

Council and other matters related to the Security Council 

(19 May 2026)

Distinguished Co-Chairs,

Ukraine expresses its appreciation to the delegations of Kuwait and the Kingdom of the Netherlands for their leadership in advancing the IGN process.

Security Council reform remains a matter of exceptional importance and a cornerstone of broader UN reform. It is also a test of our collective ability to uphold the credibility of the Organization in the face of growing threats to international peace and security.

On the size of an enlarged Council and its working methods, Ukraine underscores that these two dimensions must advance in parallel.

A reformed Council must be more representative, transparent, and accountable, while preserving its ability to act decisively.

We support improving working methods, including strengthening accountability to the General Assembly, enhancing transparency, and ensuring more inclusive participation of the wider UN membership.

On equitable representation, Ukraine reiterates its principled support for correcting the current geographical imbalance. This requires increased representation of developing countries, particularly from Africa, Asia, Latin America, and the Caribbean.

At the same time, any expansion of non-permanent membership must include enhanced representation for the Group of Eastern European States, which remains underrepresented.

Regarding the Pact for the Future, including Action 39 and interim measures under Action 41, Ukraine views these provisions as a useful consolidation of existing reform discussions and a reaffirmation of the urgency of making the Security Council more representative, transparent, and effective.

Action 39 appropriately reflects key parameters of the IGN process, including the need to address historical injustices, improve regional representation, ensure a balance between representativeness and effectiveness, and continue substantive engagement on the question of the veto.

At the same time, Ukraine considers that the interim measures outlined in Action 41 are important for improving the working methods of the Council and strengthening its relationship with the General Assembly, particularly in terms of transparency, accountability, and responsiveness.

Finally, Ukraine stresses a fundamental point: discussions on the Security Council reform risk losing credibility if they ignore the issue of membership responsibility.

A state that commits aggression, violates the UN Charter, and perpetrates war crimes cannot credibly uphold the primary responsibility of maintaining international peace and security.

The continued presence of Russia in the Security Council, acquired under highly questionable legal circumstances and abused in blatant violation of the UN Charter, undermines the legitimacy of this body.

No reform will be complete or meaningful without addressing this reality.

I thank you.