UN Chief Condemns Russian Strikes on Ukraine’s Energy System
November 17, 2024
New York, USA – The United Nations Secretary-General, António Guterres, has strongly condemned Russia’s airstrikes on the energy system of Ukraine, describing the attacks as “an unacceptable escalation of the conflict.”
In a statement issued on Thursday, the UN chief expressed his “deep concern” over the impact of the strikes on Ukraine’s civilian population. He said that the attacks “have caused widespread blackouts and disruptions to essential services, including water and heating, at a time when temperatures are dropping and people are most vulnerable.”
Guterres called on all parties to “immediately cease attacks on civilian infrastructure and to respect international law, including the Geneva Conventions, which prohibit attacks on civilians and civilian objects.”
The statement comes as Russia has intensified its attacks on Ukraine’s energy infrastructure in recent weeks. According to Ukrainian officials, the strikes have damaged or destroyed 40% of the country’s energy system, causing widespread power outages and disruptions to essential services.
The attacks have also raised concerns about the humanitarian impact of the conflict. With winter approaching, the damage to Ukraine’s energy infrastructure could lead to a surge in morbidity and mortality, as people struggle to access essential services such as heating and water.
The UN Secretary-General called on all parties to “engage in meaningful dialogue and work towards a peaceful resolution of the conflict.” He also urged the international community to provide “urgent humanitarian assistance” to the people of Ukraine.
The UN Security Council is expected to hold an emergency meeting on Friday to discuss the situation in Ukraine. The meeting was requested by France and Mexico, who are both non-permanent members of the Council.
The Security Council is the only body in the United Nations that has the power to impose sanctions or authorize military action. However, Russia, as a permanent member of the Council, has veto power over any resolutions that it does not support.
UN chief condemns Russian strikes on Ukraine’s energy system
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