Ukraine: UN official calls for restraint, reiterates call for just and lasting peace
Adedeji Ebo, Director and Deputy High Representative of the United Nations for Disarmament Affairs, made the call at a meeting Security Council brief report on the ongoing crisis, now approaching the 1,000-day mark since Russia’s full-scale invasion in February 2022.
Mr Ebo warned that the situation remained dire for civilians, with increased attacks leading to record casualties in recent months.
“Attacks targeting civilians and civilian infrastructure are unacceptable,” he said, stressing that indiscriminate violence is prohibited under international law.
He reiterated that all parties to armed conflicts have an obligation to protect civilians and respect international humanitarian law.
Transfer of weapons
Mr. Ebo also briefed Council members on continued arms transfers to parties to the conflict, noting reports of continued shipments of conventional weapons and remotely controlled ammunition to Ukraine as well as weapons such as drones, ballistic missiles and ammunition to Russia.
He also addressed recent reports, unconfirmed by the United Nations, of the presence of third-party military personnel from the Democratic People’s Republic of Korea (DPRK) in the Russian Federation to support military operations. resistance to Ukrainian forces.
“We call on all parties concerned to refrain from any steps that could lead to the spread and intensification of war,he said.
He also emphasized that any transfers of arms and ammunition must take place consistent with the applicable international legal framework, including relevant Security Council resolutions as well as other measures. applicable sanctions and restrictions on such transfers.
Humanitarian impact
Mr. Ebo further noted the impact on civilians of using explosive weapons in populated areas.
From 24 February 2022 to 30 September 2024, the United Nations human rights office, OHCHRrecorded more than 11,973 civilian deaths and more than 25,943 civilian injuries in Ukraine. September was the month with the highest number of civilian casualties in 2024, continuing a trend of higher civilian casualties that began in July.
“The use of explosive weapons in populated areas remains one of the greatest threats to civilians in armed conflict. Such use of these weapons is unacceptable given the pattern of civilian harm and the potential for indiscriminate effects.”
Commitment to support
He reiterated the Secretary-General’s call for countries to reduce the human cost of arms by supporting the agreement Political Declaration on Strengthening the Protection of Civilians from Humanitarian Consequences Arising from the Use of Explosive Weapons in Populated Areas if they have not done so.
Mr. Ebo reiterated the United Nations’ support for “all meaningful efforts” to bring about just, comprehensive and lasting peace in Ukraine in accordance with international law, including international law. UN Charter and relevant Congress resolutions.
