General Assembly Resolution Seeking End to Ukraine Hostilities ‘Is Loud and Clear’, Secretary-General Says, Warning Situation Could Get Worse

Following are UN Secretary-General António Guterres’ remarks to the press following the General Assembly vote on Ukraine, in New York today:

The General Assembly has spoken.  As Secretary-General, it is my duty to stand by this resolution and be guided by its call.  The message of the General Assembly is loud and clear: end hostilities in Ukraine — now; silence the guns — now; open the door to dialogue and diplomacy — now.

The territorial integrity and sovereignty of Ukraine must be respected in line with the United Nations Charter.  We don’t have a moment to lose.  The brutal effects of the conflict are plain to see.  But, as bad as the situation is for the people in Ukraine right now, it threatens to get much, much worse.

The ticking clock is a time bomb.  I am also deeply concerned with its potential consequences for regional and global peace and security, and a world struggling to recover from COVID.  Today’s resolution reflects a central truth.  The world wants an end to the tremendous human suffering in Ukraine.

The UN Security Council discussed the Ukraine-Russia border crisis

This same truth was clear in the rapid mobilization of funds for our life-saving humanitarian operations in Ukraine and neighbouring countries.  Our global flash appeal was met with record generosity.  I am deeply grateful to donors for their support.

With that funding in hand, we’ll be able to scale up the delivery of vital medical and health supplies, food, safe drinking water, shelter and protection.  Looking ahead, I will continue to do everything in my power to contribute to an immediate cessation of hostilities and urgent negotiations for peace.

People in Ukraine desperately need peace.  And people around the world demand it.

More information: United Nations – Meetings Coverage and Press Releases

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Ukraine/Russia: Statement by High Representative Josep Borrell on the adoption of the UN General Assembly’s resolution on the aggression against Ukraine

The United Nations General Assembly adopted a resolution on “Aggression against Ukraine”, by an overwhelming majority of 141 in favour to 5 against (with 35 abstentions). The decision is clear. The world has issued a resounding condemnation of illegal and unprovoked attacks on a sovereign state.

Russian aggression against Ukraine: Speech by High Representative/Vice-President Josep Borrell at the EP plenary

This is an historic moment. The United Nations have come together in speaking out in respect of the values and principles enshrined in the UN Charter. They have deplored in the strongest terms the aggression by the Russian Federation, as well as the involvement of Belarus, demanded that they cease their use of force against Ukraine, and withdraw all military forces from the entire territory of Ukraine – immediately, completely and unconditionally. The European Union and its Member States have worked hand in hand with Ukraine and partners, to prepare the resolution.

We thank all countries that have supported it and with whom we stand together in defending the rules based international system. We need to continue working for the benefit of international peace and security, protecting all states, large and small, standing by Ukraine and supporting its democratic institutions and representatives.

More information: European Union External Action Service – Press release