United Nations Secretary General Antonio Guterres speaks at the Yemen peace talks closing press conference at the Johannesberg castle in Rimbo, near Stockholm December 13, 2018. TT News Agency/Pontus Lundahl via REUTERS ATTENTION EDITORS - THIS IMAGE WAS PROVIDED BY A THIRD PARTY. SWEDEN OUT.
UN Welcomes Ukraine Peace Talks, Stresses Need for Black Sea Navigation Deal
The United Nations has expressed support for recent diplomatic discussions between Russia, Ukraine, and the U.S. in Saudi Arabia, calling them a positive step toward resolving the ongoing conflict.
In a statement issued by UN spokesperson Stéphane Dujarric, Secretary-General António Guterres commended the talks and reiterated the UN’s readiness to assist in achieving lasting peace. The statement highlighted the urgent need for a deal ensuring safe navigation in the Black Sea, which is critical for global food security.
“An agreement on protecting civilian ships and port infrastructure in the Black Sea would significantly bolster food supplies and stabilize international trade routes,” Dujarric said. “Both Ukrainian and Russian exports are vital to global markets.”
Guterres expressed hope that the diplomatic efforts would lead to a sustainable ceasefire and, ultimately, a just and comprehensive peace in Ukraine.
Meanwhile, the humanitarian situation in Ukraine remains dire, with nearly 13 million people requiring assistance. UN Deputy Emergency Relief Coordinator Joyce Msuya warned that funding cuts are jeopardizing essential aid programs, particularly those supporting women and girls.
According to UN estimates, over 640,000 people could lose access to gender-based violence protection services, mental health support, and safe shelters if funding gaps persist.
The UN Human Rights Monitoring Mission in Ukraine has confirmed at least 12,881 civilian deaths since Russia’s full-scale invasion in February 2022, though the actual number is believed to be far higher.
The UN continues to call for increased international support to address the worsening crisis while advocating for diplomatic solutions to end the war.
