UN Secretary-General Condemns Massive Russian Strikes on Ukraine, Calls for Immediate Ceasefire

Daniella Gross Photo: ukrinofm.ua

UN Secretary-General António Guterres has condemned Russia’s large-scale missile and drone attacks on civilian infrastructure across Ukraine and once again urged for an immediate ceasefire.

The statement was delivered to journalists on Thursday by Deputy Spokesperson for the Secretary-General, Daniella Gross, according to Ukrinform’s New York correspondent.

“The Secretary-General condemns the continuation of Russian attacks across Ukraine, including the massive drone and missile strikes… last night,” Gross said.

According to Guterres, such assaults undermine ongoing diplomatic efforts to reach a peaceful resolution, while any attacks targeting civilians and civilian infrastructure are prohibited under international law and must stop immediately.

Gross declined to comment on the ongoing discussions regarding potential security guarantees for Ukraine, noting that talks are still underway. However, she emphasized the Secretary-General’s firm stance.

“We call for a full, immediate, and unconditional ceasefire, which must lead to a just, comprehensive, and lasting peace that fully ensures Ukraine’s sovereignty, independence, and territorial integrity within its internationally recognized borders — in line with the UN Charter, international law, and all UN resolutions,” Gross stressed.

As reported, on the night of August 21, Russia launched one of its largest attacks against Ukraine since the beginning of the war, employing both missiles and strike drones.