New york: The European Union, represented by H.E. Ambassador Hedda Samson, Deputy Head of the European Union Delegation, delivered a firm statement at the High-level plenary meeting of the UN General Assembly commemorating the International Day against Nuclear Tests. The EU's position was clear, emphasizing the critical need for global cessation of nuclear weapon test explosions to ensure international peace and security. The statement was supported by EU Member States and aligned nations, including candidate countries and others such as Andorra and San Marino. According to European Union, nuclear tests pose significant threats to global security, especially amid current international crises. The EU condemned Russia's nuclear rhetoric and actions in Ukraine, calling for an immediate withdrawal of Russian forces from Ukraine to uphold international law and sovereignty. The Comprehensive Nuclear-Test-Ban Treaty (CTBT) is highlighted as a cornerstone of disarmament and non-proliferation, with its entry into for ce being a priority for the EU. The EU has urged all states, particularly the remaining Annex 2 States, to ratify the CTBT without delay. The EU also expressed concern over Russia's decision to revoke its ratification of the CTBT, viewing it as a setback in global efforts to enforce the treaty. Despite this, the EU called on all nations to uphold the moratorium on nuclear test explosions. The recent ratification of the CTBT by Tonga was welcomed, marking a step toward universalization in the Pacific region. The EU praised the CTBTO's role in monitoring nuclear tests, urging North Korea to adhere to UN Security Council resolutions and abandon its nuclear weapons program. The statement reiterated the EU's support for the CTBT's verification regime and the International Monitoring System (IMS). The EU emphasized the importance of funding the IMS to maintain its global monitoring capabilities. Additionally, the EU supports the civil and scientific benefits of IMS data, contributing over 36 million euros since 2 006 to the CTBTO's verification and capacity-building activities. As the CTBT marks its 30th anniversary, the EU acknowledged the importance of high-level engagements in promoting a nuclear test-free world.