UN chief reiterates call to end violence as Russia-Ukraine war completes 100 days

As battle to safeguard Kyiv’s sovereignty completed 100 days on Friday, United Nations (UN) chief renewed his call for an immediate halt to violence in country. António Guterres asserted that ongoing Russian invasion has alrey taken thousands of lives, caused destruction and displaced millions of people in Ukraine. In dendum, war has also inflamed a “three dimensional’ global crisis vis a vis food, energy and finance. 

In an online statement, UN Secretary-General said, “As we mark this tragic day, I renew my call for an immediate halt to violence, for unfettered humanitarian access to all those in need, for safe evacuation of civilians trapped in areas of fighting and for urgent protection of civilians and respect for human rights in accordance with international norms.” On Thursday, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky said that at least “tens of thousands” of people have been killed since Putin’s 'special military operations' began on February 24.

He said that UN is committed to “humanitarian effort” in conflict-hit country. “Since first days of war, UN has been re to support people of Ukraine in dealing with humanitarian impact of conflict.” In dition, organisation has continuously highlighted potential dangers and long term consequences of war in Ukraine. 

However, Guterres emphasised that a resolution of ongoing conflict would require “negotiations and dialogue.” “ sooner parties engage in good-faith diplomatic efforts to end this war, better for sake of Ukraine, Russia and world,” top diplomat emphasised, ding that UN stands rey to support negotiations. 

Visible repercussions of war 

war has weighed heavy on global supply chains. Pre-war Ukraine was known as bre basket of world with its seeds and grains feeding Africa, Europe and Asia. Now, with seaports under blocke, re are thousands of tonnes of food rotting. As Zelenskyy calls for lifting blocke, a report by Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) stated that ongoing conflict could leave more than 13 million people undernourished in a worst-case scenario. 

(Image: AP) 

(With inputs from agencies)