Diplomatic discussions between Russia and Ukraine appear to be hanging by a thread
The United Nations has expressed concern over the state of peace negotiations between Moscow and Kyiv, amidst a sharp increase in large-scale attacks by Russia against Ukraine.
In a statement before the Security Council, UN Under-Secretary-General for Political Affairs Rosemary DiCarlo expressed dismay, stating, "Instead of advances towards peace, we have seen a brutal surge of large-scale Russian attacks across the country."
The comments come following a series of attacks this week, including a record-breaking drone attack over a two-day period starting Sunday, after a weekend of extensive strikes.
DiCarlo's remarks followed the peace talks held in Istanbul on May 16, which marked the first significant negotiations between the two parties since the spring of 2022. However, partial progress remains elusive.
The Kremlin has proposed additional talks in Istanbul for next Monday, pending a response from Kyiv. Ukraine, which has accused Russia of stalling, is insisting on addressing Moscow's conditions before any meeting.
In light of the situation, DiCarlo called for an immediate and unconditional ceasefire, emphasizing that any escalation would worsen the catastrophic toll on civilians and jeopardize ongoing efforts towards peace.
The US representative echoed DiCarlo's sentiments, suggesting that prolonging the conflict serves no one's interest, including Russia's. John Kelley, acting Deputy Ambassador, hinted at the prospect of withdrawing from negotiations should Russia continue its destructive war.
Ukraine is advocating for the strengthening of sanctions against Russia, explaining that Moscow demonstrates no genuine intention of halting its offensive. Acting Ukrainian Ambassador Khrystyna Hayovyshyn pleaded for international political, military, and economic pressure to be intensified in response.
Russian Ambassador Vassili Nebenzia countered these claims, accusing Kyiv of trying to prolong the war and promising the continuation of Russian operations until there is a change in circumstances. He insisted that additional sanctions, arms deliveries to Ukraine, or any hostile measures against Russia will not deter the inevitable military defeat of the Zelensky regime.
The UN remains primarily involved in delivering humanitarian aid and backing international law, with no official reports on current peace negotiations between the two nations. For the most up-to-date information, it is advisable to follow the latest reports from the United Nations, international news outlets, or Direct statements from the involved parties.
- The current political landscape is marked by the escalating war-and-conflicts between Russia and Ukraine, with the United Nations expressing concern over the stalled peace negotiations.
- The UN Under-Secretary-General for Political Affairs, Rosemary DiCarlo, has called for an immediate and unconditional ceasefire in the general news of the ongoing Russia-Ukraine conflict, highlighting the dire consequences for civilians if the situation further deteriorates.
