Plea for an End to the “Unjustified” War
Under-Secretary-General Rosemary DiCarlo issued a heartfelt appeal on Monday, urging an immediate end to the “unjustified” war in Ukraine.
Speaking at a briefing to the Security Council, she emphasized the urgent need to halt the prolonged conflict, highlighting its devastating consequences and the potential for wider escalation. DiCarlo underscored the imperative of ending this senseless war for the sake of the Ukrainian people and the global community.
Grim Toll and Violation of International Law
During her briefing, Ms. DiCarlo presented a somber account of the destruction caused by the war since its onset on February 24, 2022. According to the UN human rights office (OHCHR), over 9,000 lives have been lost, with more than 16,000 people injured.
However, these figures are likely an underestimate of the true extent of the casualties. Children have borne the brunt of the conflict, with 537 reported fatalities. Ukraine also witnessed an alarming number of attacks on schools and hospitals, making it the country with the highest count of children killed and maimed last year.
Ms. DiCarlo reiterated the flagrant violation of the UN Charter and international law by Russia’s invasion of Ukraine, echoing the Secretary-General’s unwavering stance.
Nuclear Safety Concerns Amidst Ongoing Conflict
Addressing the situation at the Zaporizhzhia Nuclear Power Plant, which has been under Russian control since the early stages of the war, Ms. DiCarlo expressed deep concern over recent explosions near the facility.
These incidents, detected by experts from the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA), underscore the potential risks to nuclear safety and security faced by the plant due to the ongoing military conflict.
Aid Delivery Challenges and Inaccessibility
Despite the persistent fighting, the UN and its partners have been striving to deliver aid to over five million people this year through more than 65 inter-agency convoys to frontline areas.
However, humanitarians face significant challenges in accessing Russian-controlled territories in Donetsk, Luhansk, Kherson, and Zaporizhzhia regions, where approximately 3.7 million people are in dire need of assistance.
Ongoing efforts are underway to engage with both Moscow and Kyiv to address these access constraints. The recent destruction of the Kakhovka Dam further highlights the critical need for access, as it has devastated communities along the Dnipro River and inflicted severe damage on local ecosystems.
Displacement Crisis and Struggle for Return
The displacement crisis remains a grave concern in Ukraine, with over 6.3 million Ukrainians living as refugees and an estimated 5.1 million internally displaced persons (IDPs).
According to the International Organization for Migration (IOM), around 4.76 million individuals have returned to their communities since the war began in February 2022, including 1.1 million refugees.
However, pervasive insecurity and the presence of extensive landmines make it nearly impossible for most refugees and IDPs to safely return to their homes.
Grave Human Rights Violations and the Call for Justice
Ms. DiCarlo brought attention to the deeply troubling record of human rights violations committed during the war. These include arbitrary deprivation of life, arbitrary detention, enforced disappearance, torture, ill-treatment, and conflict-related sexual violence.
The UN human rights office (OHCHR) documented 864 individuals detained by Russia, with numerous cases constituting forced disappearances. Shockingly, over 90 percent of civilian detainees reportedly endured torture, ill-treatment, and sexual violence.
OHCHR also reported 75 cases of arbitrary detention by Ukrainian security forces, with 57 percent involving torture and ill-treatment.
Ms. DiCarlo emphasized the urgent need for justice and accountability. Concern rose over the alleged execution of 77 civilians detained by Russia, as reported by the UN rights office.
The UN also recorded 75 cases of arbitrary detention by Ukrainian security forces, primarily for conflict-related offenses. DiCarlo stressed justice, accountability, and rejecting impunity for all human rights victims.
Building a Path to Lasting Peace
As the United Nations emphasizes the urgent need to end this war, it is crucial to recognize the wider implications at stake. The risks to nuclear safety and security, coupled with the profound suffering endured by millions of Ukrainians, demand immediate action.
The international community must unite in support of President Zelensky’s 10-point peace plan, redoubling efforts to bring an end to this devastating conflict.
Global Call to Action for Peace
The time has come for the international community to rally behind the urgent call for peace. The UN’s appeal for justice, accountability, and an immediate cessation of hostilities must resonate worldwide. The world cannot afford to allow this conflict to persist, as the consequences extend far beyond Ukraine’s borders.
United for a Peaceful Future
In the pursuit of lasting peace, the global community must unite, upholding the principles of the UN Charter. The future of Ukraine and international stability hinge on our collective effort to end this war and restore hope.
Together, we can create a brighter future, free from the horrors of war, by uniting and taking decisive action. The international community must join hands and forge a path to lasting peace for Ukraine and humanity.
Sources: THX News & United Nations.
