24 February marks four years since Russia launched its full-scale invasion of Ukraine, in violation of the UN Charter & international law.
This devastating war is a stain on our collective consciousness & remains a threat to regional & international peace & security.
The longer the war continues, the deadlier it becomes. Civilians bear the brunt of this conflict, with 2025 witnessing the largest number of civilians killed in Ukraine.
This is simply unacceptable.
I reiterate my call for an immediate, full & unconditional ceasefire as a first step towards a just, lasting & comprehensive peace.
For peace to be just, it must be in line with international law, respecting Ukraine’s independence, sovereignty & territorial integrity.
: António Guterres
Secretary-General of the United Nations