UN Secretary-General António Guterres has again called for an „immediate, complete and unconditional ceasefire“ in Ukraine. He said this was a necessary first step towards a just, lasting and comprehensive peace.
In a statement issued on the fourth anniversary of the start of the Ukraine crisis, which falls on 24 February, he said the conflict represents „a stain on our collective consciousness“ and continues to threaten regional and global security.
According to the UN chief, the consequences of the war are deepening with each passing day. „The longer the crisis lasts, the deadlier it gets, and the civilians are the ones who take the brunt of it,“ he stressed.
Guterres also reminded that any peaceful solution must comply with the basic principles of international law. For peace to be truly just, „must be in accordance with the UN Charter, international law and relevant UN resolutions and respect the independence, sovereignty and territorial integrity of Ukraine“.
He said the United Nations was ready to continue to support all diplomatic initiatives that would lead to an end to the conflict. „The United Nations remains ready to contribute to all efforts towards this goal.“ said the Secretary-General.