UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres has issued a plea for an end to the ongoing crisis in Ukraine. Speaking at a Security Council meeting coinciding with the second anniversary of Russia's military operation in Ukraine, Guterres emphasized the urgency of achieving peace in the region.

Highlighting the enduring conflict in Ukraine as a significant challenge for Europe, Guterres stressed the importance of pursuing a just peace based on principles outlined in the UN Charter, international law, and General Assembly resolutions.

He underscored the imperative of resolving international disputes through peaceful means, reiterating the UN's commitment to upholding the territorial integrity and political independence of all states.

Guterres warned of the real danger of the conflict in Ukraine escalating and spreading, noting its detrimental impact on geopolitical dynamics, regional stability, and global efforts to address pressing issues. He emphasized that the conflict has exacerbated economic challenges, particularly affecting developing nations, and heightened the risk of a nuclear incident.

The Secretary-General called for a reaffirmation of the principles enshrined in the UN Charter and a renewed commitment to upholding international law as essential steps towards achieving peace and security, not only in Ukraine but also globally.

Guterres' appeal comes amid ongoing efforts to address the protracted conflict in Ukraine, with diplomatic initiatives aimed at finding a sustainable resolution to the crisis. The UN remains actively engaged in facilitating dialogue and promoting peaceful solutions to end the conflict and alleviate its humanitarian consequences.

As the world marks the two-year anniversary of the military operation in Ukraine, Guterres' call for a renewed commitment to peace underscores the urgency of addressing the crisis and advancing efforts towards a lasting and comprehensive resolution.