Kehinde Adegoke | Agency Report
New York:Four years after Russia’s full-scale invasion, the UN marked the anniversary with renewed appeals for peace, highlighting the war’s mounting human and economic toll.
The General Assembly also passed a resolution reaffirming its strong commitment to Ukraine’s sovereignty, independence, and territorial integrity.
Meeting in an emergency special session on Ukraine at UN headquarters in New York, the General Assembly adopted a resolution titled “Support for lasting peace in Ukraine,” which calls for specific steps toward ending the conflict.
The General Assembly called for an immediate, full and unconditional ceasefire between Russia and Ukraine.
The text of the resolution reaffirmed commitment to Ukraine’s sovereignty and territorial integrity and called for a comprehensive, just and lasting peace in line with the UN Charter. It also urged the exchange of prisoners of war and the return of civilians forcibly transferred, including children.
The resolution was adopted by 107 votes in favour, including Nigeria, 12 against and 51 abstentions.
Meanwhile, UN Secretary-General António Guterres said in a statement that the invasion violated the United Nations Charter and international law.
“This devastating war is a stain on our collective consciousness, and remains a threat to regional and international peace and 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 and unconditional ceasefire as a first step towards a just, lasting and comprehensive peace,’’ he said.
According to him, for peace to be just, it must be in line with the UN Charter, international law, and relevant United Nations resolutions, and respect Ukraine’s independence, sovereignty, and territorial integrity.
“The United Nations remains ready to contribute to all efforts towards this end.’’
