United Nations Secretary-General António Guterres urges immediate, unconditional ceasefire after large-scale strikes in Ukraine

Secretary-General António Guterres told the United Nations plenary that recent large-scale strikes across Ukraine on 23 and 24 May "underscore the gravity of this moment." He warned the escalation risks spiraling "out of control" and called for immediate, sustained de-escalation.

Guterres cited figures he said were "verified by the Office of the High Commissioner for Human Rights," saying that "since February 2022, more than 15,000 civilians have been killed in Ukraine, nearly 800 children among them." He also noted reports of growing civilian casualties inside the Russian Federation and said humanitarian personnel have come under attack.

"The trajectory must change. The death spiral must stop," Guterres said, emphasizing the risk of miscalculation and "unknown and unintended consequences" if fighting continues. He described swarms of drones inflicting heavy casualties and extensive destruction of civilian infrastructure, especially energy systems.

"What is needed now is de-escalation, immediate and sustained. What is needed now is a full and unconditional ceasefire," Guterres said, and urged more diplomacy to "create the conditions for a just, lasting, and comprehensive peace in line with the Charter of the United Nations, international law, and UN resolution." He thanked the assembly after delivering his appeal.

The presiding officer thanked the Secretary-General for his briefing and gave the floor to Assistant Secretary-General Khaled Khiari, who was set to provide the detailed briefing Guterres had referenced.