Secretary-General Calls for Full, Unconditional Ceasefire in Ukraine During Security Council Meeting
UN Secretary-General António Guterres, represented by Under-Secretary-General for Political and Peacebuilding Affairs Rosemary A. DiCarlo, addressed the Security Council today regarding the ongoing conflict in Ukraine. Four years after Russia’s full-scale invasion, the war continues to inflict severe humanitarian consequences, with thousands of civilian casualties and widespread displacement. Guterres emphasized the urgent need for a ceasefire and a diplomatic resolution to restore peace and stability in the region.
Humanitarian Crisis Deepens
The humanitarian situation in Ukraine has reached catastrophic levels, with over 15,000 civilians killed and more than 41,000 injured since the onset of the invasion. The conflict has forced millions to flee their homes, while many others remain in dire need of life-saving assistance. Children are particularly vulnerable; more than 3,200 have been killed or injured, and over one-third of Ukrainian children are displaced. An estimated 2.2 million children require humanitarian aid, and the ongoing conflict has disrupted their education, leaving a generation at risk of losing vital learning opportunities.
This winter, the situation has worsened as Russian forces intensified attacks on Ukraine’s civilian energy infrastructure. These strikes have not only resulted in civilian casualties but have also left millions without access to electricity, heating, and water during freezing temperatures. The impact of these attacks extends beyond Ukraine, as civilians in Russia are also affected by reported Ukrainian strikes. Guterres condemned all attacks on civilians and civilian infrastructure, urging both sides to implement an immediate moratorium on such actions.
Risks to Nuclear Safety
The ongoing conflict poses significant risks to the safety and security of Ukraine’s nuclear facilities. Guterres described the situation as an “unconscionable game of nuclear roulette” that must end immediately. He commended the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) for its critical work on the ground, despite the dangers involved. The UN is actively collaborating with the Ukrainian government to repair damaged infrastructure and provide essential services to those affected by the war.
Despite the deteriorating security situation, the UN is working with local partners to deliver humanitarian aid, including food, water, and medical supplies, particularly to frontline communities. Guterres called on member states to fully fund the humanitarian response to alleviate the suffering of those impacted by the conflict.
Human Rights Violations and Accountability
Throughout the war, the Office of the United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights (OHCHR) has reported widespread human rights violations, including torture, sexual violence, and executions of prisoners of war and civilian detainees. Guterres highlighted the lack of accountability for these acts and welcomed ongoing prisoner exchanges. He urged that all prisoners of war and detainees be treated humanely and released in accordance with international humanitarian law.
Additionally, Guterres emphasized the need for the return of Ukrainian children who have been deported or forcibly transferred to Russia and occupied areas. He commended efforts to facilitate these returns and called for continued cooperation to ensure the safe and swift reunification of families.
Call for Peace and Diplomacy
A year ago, the Security Council adopted resolution 2774 (2025), calling for a swift end to the conflict and a lasting peace between Ukraine and Russia. Guterres praised the diplomatic efforts of the United States and other nations to resolve the war. He stressed the importance of taking concrete measures to de-escalate the fighting and create space for diplomacy.
The longer the conflict persists, the greater the suffering and risks to regional and international peace and security. Guterres reiterated the UN’s commitment to supporting peace efforts, emphasizing that the parameters for peace are clear: they must align with international law, uphold Ukraine’s sovereignty, independence, and territorial integrity. He concluded with a powerful call for an immediate, full, and unconditional ceasefire, marking the first step toward a just peace that can save lives and end the ongoing suffering.
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