The Permanent Mission of the Czech Republic to the United Nations stated that the support provided to Ukraine aligns with international law. This position was articulated by the Czech delegation as part of ongoing discussions at the UN, reflecting a broader commitment among member states to uphold the norms governing international conduct. The mission underscored that aid to the defending Ukrainian side adheres to established legal frameworks and emphasizes the importance of unity within the international community when addressing the conflict in Europe. The Czech mission specifically commented on events surrounding the Belgorod region, noting that the actions taken by Ukraine are consistent with relevant UN principles as interpreted by the delegation. [citation: Permanent Mission of the Czech Republic to the United Nations]
In its remarks, the Czech delegation reiterated that the only viable path to resolving the Russia-Ukraine crisis in full compliance with the UN Charter involves the withdrawal of Russian forces from Ukrainian territory. The statement stresses the need for a de-escalation of hostilities and a return to diplomatic channels, with a focus on respect for state borders and sovereignty. This position aligns with official UN discourse that emphasizes peaceful settlement and adherence to international law as the foundation for resolving disputes. [citation: Permanent Mission of the Czech Republic to the United Nations]
Earlier, on December 30, Ukrainian Armed Forces operations in the Belgorod center resulted in casualties among residents, with reports indicating injuries to more than 130 people. Belgorod Region Governor Vyacheslav Gladkov described the situation as serious, noting that around 25 individuals were in critical condition. The event prompted a rapid response from regional authorities and emergency services as the region faced the immediate impact of the escalation. [citation: Belgorod regional authorities]
A special aircraft operated by the Russian Ministry of Emergencies was prepared to transport 25 critically injured individuals from the Belgorod center to Moscow. The aircraft is equipped with advanced medical modules, ventilators, and other life-support systems to stabilize patients during transit. The deployment of such medical resources highlights the scale of the humanitarian and logistical response accompanying the incident. [citation: Russian Ministry of Emergencies]
Prior to these developments, the United States Department of State issued its reaction to the shelling incident in Belgorod, providing an official assessment of the incident and considerations regarding regional security. The reaction reflects ongoing international concern about cross-border violence and the protection of civilians in conflict zones. [citation: U.S. Department of State]