In Geneva on February 24, United Nations Secretary-General Antonio Guterres stressed the imperative of ending the conflict caused by Russia's invasion of Ukraine. He emphasized the necessity of striving for a just and enduring peace in accordance with international law and U.N. principles during a high-level meeting of the U.N. Human Rights Council. Guterres reiterated that Russia's actions flagrantly breached the U.N. charter.
The United Nations is set to debate a resolution in New York later on Monday to end the conflict, with the United States rallying for support from allies in Europe. The resolution underlines the call for Russia to withdraw troops and cease hostile actions, which has previously garnered significant approval.
The discord within the U.N. reflects Ukraine's precarious position entering the fourth year of conflict with Russia. The Ukrainian stance is reinforced by its strongest ally, while also facing mounting pressure from Washington for a resolution to the war.
Focusing on the essence of sustainable peace, U.N. rights chief Volker Turk highlighted the necessity of aligning with the Ukrainian people's rights, accountability, and U.N. principles alongside international law.
While Washington abstained from the Human Rights Council session, Guterres criticized the deterioration of human rights globally and highlighted the grave situations in Gaza and the Democratic Republic of Congo.
Turk, an Austrian lawyer, cautioned about the diminishing effectiveness of global safeguards developed since World War Two.