UN Chief Calls for Unconditional Ceasefire Between Ukraine and Russia

United Nations, September 9 (Daily Kiran) : United Nations Secretary-General Antonio Guterres has expressed optimism about the resumption of talks between Ukraine and Russia, following recent diplomatic efforts. His spokesperson shared this information on September 9.

During a briefing, spokesperson Stéphane Dujarric highlighted that Guterres is encouraged by the recent visits of senior U.S. diplomats to Moscow and Kyiv, along with other diplomatic initiatives.

“The Secretary-General hopes that these recent efforts will pave the way for renewed dialogue between Ukraine and Russia. This could lead to immediate, full, and unconditional progress towards a ceasefire, ultimately contributing to a just, comprehensive, and lasting peace in accordance with international law, the UN Charter, and relevant UN resolutions,” Dujarric stated.

Guterres has also voiced deep concern over ongoing attacks on civilians and civilian infrastructure in both Ukraine and Russia. The Secretary-General is calling for an immediate halt to these attacks and urging both parties to create a conducive environment for advancing diplomatic efforts.

Previously, Juraj Blanar, Slovakia’s Minister of Foreign and European Affairs, emphasized the need for EU leaders to take a more active role in seeking a diplomatic resolution to the Ukraine conflict. He noted that while the U.S. has increased its involvement in the peace process, Europe has primarily focused on providing substantial economic aid to Ukraine.

“Our current position is such that we are not even at the negotiation table. We are merely bearing all the associated costs,” Blanar remarked.

According to Xinhua News Agency, data from the European External Action Service reveals that since the war began, the EU and its member states have provided over $226 billion in financial, military, humanitarian, and refugee assistance to Ukraine.

Blanar mentioned that Slovakia, along with its Visegrad Group partners—Czech Republic, Hungary, and Poland—agrees on the necessity for the EU to play a more proactive role in the peace process. However, opinions on how to achieve a ceasefire vary among the four countries.

He explained that Slovakia, Hungary, and the Czech Republic will not participate in guaranteeing a €90 billion ($104.5 billion) loan for Ukraine, while Poland has decided to take part.

“Even if our views differ, we are still able to sit down and discuss these issues together,” Blanar concluded.