Guterres urges action as war crimes allegations mount
The Secretary-General of the United Nations, António Guterres, underscored the urgency of ending impunity for international crimes as the Security Council convened to discuss the crisis in Ukraine and Russia. He highlighted the gravity of the moment and stressed that those responsible for war crimes must face accountability. The remarks came as part of a broader briefing on the human rights impact of the conflict and the urgent need for cooperation with international tribunals that are investigating abuses.
In listing the disturbing violations reported, Guterres cited extrajudicial killings, sexual violence, torture, and other inhumane and degrading treatments affecting civilians and prisoners of war. He referred to recent discoveries and grave findings from sites such as Izium, urging all parties to cooperate with investigations led by international bodies. The UN has called for comprehensive cooperation to ensure that perpetrators are identified and prosecuted.
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The meeting was convened with a focus on the war in Ukraine, with France presiding over the session and guiding the agenda. While diplomacy sought unity and new sanctions, there was widespread concern that some parties may reject or resist Council decisions. Observers warned that any failure to act decisively could embolden those who violate international norms and threaten regional and global stability.
Guterres described the situation as dangerous and alarming and noted the global repercussions of the conflict. He warned that the war has strained food and energy systems, disrupted finance, and pushed millions toward extreme poverty and hunger. The escalation threatens decades of development gains and calls for urgent, coordinated responses from the international community.
The discussion also addressed nuclear risks. The Secretary-General emphasized that the pattern of threats and rhetoric surrounding nuclear weapons is unacceptable. He stressed that the Zaporizhzhia nuclear facility remains a critical concern and warned that any scenario involving nuclear use would be catastrophic, urging all sides to avoid actions that could lead to a nuclear disaster. The international community must prevent slides toward a worst‑case outcome and reinforce nonproliferation norms.
On the agenda at the meeting were interventions from several leading diplomats, including the Russian foreign minister and counterparts from China and the United States. The Ukrainian foreign minister was also expected to address the council. The exchange aimed to map a path toward accountability and restraint, with hopes for renewed diplomatic channels and concrete steps to de‑escalate tensions.
The speeches were planned to be concluded by Josep Borrell, who oversees EU diplomacy. In the days leading up to the session, European Union foreign ministers had sought to present a united front and discuss sanctions alongside humanitarian and security measures. The conference signaled a renewed commitment to a multilateral response, with calls for a timely UN reaction to the evolving crisis. In closing, Borrell urged decisive action by the United Nations in the week ahead to reinforce international norms and protect civilians from further harm. (Citation: UN)