Maintenance of peace and security of Ukraine - Security Council, 10191st meeting

The 10,191st meeting of the Security Council is called to order. The provisional agenda for this meeting is: Maintenance of Peace and Security of Ukraine. The agenda is adopted. In accordance with Rule 37 of the Council's Provisional Rules of Procedure, I invite the representatives of Finland, Lithuania, Poland, Romania, and Ukraine to participate in this meeting. It is so decided. In accordance with Rule 39 of the Council's Provisional Rules of Procedure, I invite the following briefers to participate in this meeting. Ms. Rosemary DiCarlo, Under-Secretary-General for Political and Peacebuilding Affairs, and Mr. Indrika Ratwat, Acting Assistant Secretary-General for Humanitarian Affairs and Deputy Emergency Relief Coordinator. It is so decided. In accordance with Rule 39 of the Council's Provisional Rules of Procedure, I also invite His Excellency Mr. Stavros Lambrinidis, head of the delegation of the European Union to the United Nations, to participate in this meeting. It is so decided. The Security Council will now begin its consideration of Item 2 of the agenda. I now give the floor to Ms. Rosemary DiCarlo.

Thank you, Mr. President. In the past week alone, 3 massive waves of Russian aerial strikes targeted Kyiv and other Ukrainian cities, further raising the alarming civilian death toll and widening the the destruction. Overnight on 8 July, missile and drone attacks were reported in Kyiv, Kharkiv, Odessa, causing civilian casualties. This followed a massive overnight aerial attack on Kyiv on 6 July. Kyiv and the Kyiv region were reportedly attacked with dozens of missiles, including ballistic, cruise, and hypersonic missiles and hundreds of drones. At least 28 people, including a 12-year-old boy, were reportedly killed. At least 90 people, including at least 7 children, were reported injured. This brutal attack came only days after one of the deadliest assaults on Kyiv since the start of the war. On the night of July 2nd, The Russian Federation launched over 70 missiles and nearly 500 drones at the city, reportedly killing at least 31 people and injuring more than 100, including children. Over 50,000 people, among which were thousands of children, sought refuge in underground metro stations. More damage to residential and other civilian infrastructure was reported in all districts of the capital. The same night, civilian casualties and damage to civilian infrastructure were also reported in Mykolaiv, Zaporizhzhia, and Chernihiv regions of Ukraine. In Dnipropetrovsk region, a child was reportedly killed. In Kherson, a Russian strike on a medical facility reportedly killed a doctor and injured a nurse. These attacks show a clear pattern. They targeted urban centers with large civilian populations and destroyed or severely damaged residential buildings with devastating consequences for the people living there. We condemn these attacks in the strongest terms. My colleague from the Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs, Andriy Ratvate will provide further details of the worsening humanitarian impact of the attacks. Mr. President, the escalation of the war continues to harm civilians living in territories of Ukraine under temporary occupation of the Russian Federation. On 3 July, at least 5 civilians were reportedly killed and 21 injured in a drone attack on on a central market in the occupied city of Tokmak in the Zaporizhzhia region of Ukraine. In the Russian-occupied Autonomous Republic of Crimea, an alleged Ukrainian strike on 6 July reportedly killed one person and led to widespread power cuts across the peninsula. Russian occupying authorities have declared a state of emergency in Ukraine's Autonomous Republic of Crimea and the city of Sevastopol due to fuel and water shortages. Inside the Russian Federation, Ukraine has continued drone attacks on oil, industrial, and military infrastructure. Some of these attacks have reportedly resulted in civilian casualties and damage to civilian, including residential, infrastructure. In one such incident on 2 July, Local Russian officials reported that one person had been killed as a result of an alleged Ukrainian drone attack in the Belgorod region. Water and power supplies in the city of Belgorod were reportedly disrupted. The same day, in the nearby Bryansk region, local authorities reported one person killed from an alleged Ukrainian strike. As we repeatedly and consistently stressed in our briefings to the Council, any attacks against civilians and civilian infrastructure, wherever they occur, are a clear violation of international humanitarian law and must stop immediately. Mr. President, the Office of the High Commissioner for Human Rights reported that civilian casualties in Ukraine— killed and injured— were higher in May than in any other month since the beginning of the conflict. Preliminary figures for June indicate an even higher toll, with at least 265 people killed and 1,816 injured. This concerning trend is seemingly continuing into July. In total, since the start of the Russian Federation's full-scale invasion of Ukraine in February 2022, OHCHR has verified that at least 16,402 civilians, including 802 children, have been killed in Ukraine. 48,428 civilians, including 2,948 children, have been injured. These figures account only for verified casualties. Actual figures are likely significantly higher. Russian authorities have reported that 250 civilians were killed and 1,596 injured in the Russian Federation in the first 6 months of 2026. The United Nations is not in a position to verify these reports. Mr. President, civilians in territories of Ukraine under the temporary occupation of the Russian Federation continue to be subjected to alleged widespread and systematic human rights violations by the occupying authorities. According to the Secretary-General's recent report on the situation of human rights in the temporarily occupied territories of Ukraine, including the Autonomous Republic of Crimea and the city of Sevastopol, Russian authorities continue to violate international humanitarian and human rights law. The report refers to severe restrictions of freedom of expression and opinion, with occupying authorities imposing administrative fines or prison sentences on residents for criticizing them or expressing pro-Ukrainian opinions or are using pro-Ukrainian symbols. We continue to urge the Russian Federation to cease practices that violate its international human rights obligations and to ensure unfettered access to OHCHR and other international human rights monitoring mechanisms. Mr. President, for over 4 years, the war in Ukraine has shattered millions of lives displaced and separated countless families, and devastated thousands of homes and communities. This war continues to undermine international law and erode regional peace and security. Its consequences continue to inflict a devastating toll and a higher cost for all concerned, with Ukrainian civilians bearing the brunt. There are no military solutions that could bring about lasting peace. Only inclusive, meaningful dialogue and negotiations can reverse the current dangerous trajectory. We therefore urge all concerned member states to make full use of all diplomatic tools and channels to achieve urgent de-escalation. An immediate, full, and unconditional ceasefire cannot be delayed any further. That ceasefire must lead to a just, lasting, and comprehensive peace in line with the UN Charter, international law, and relevant UN resolutions. And the United Nations supports all efforts to this end.

Thank you, Mr. President.

I thank Ms. DiCarlo for her briefing. I now give the floor to Mr. Indrika Batchwati.

Mr. President, Excellencies, building on the political and security developments outlined by Under-Secretary-General de Calo, allow me to focus on the impact of the latest hostilities on civilians in this armed conflict. The past week has brought another surge of civilian casualties and suffering, as outlined by U.S. Secretary-General de Calo. Since last Friday, attacks across Ukraine have killed and injured hundreds of civilians. Families with children have been killed in their homes, civilians injured on their way to work and cut off from essential services. The scale and intensity of hostilities in major urban centers in Ukraine—Dnipro, Kyiv, Kharkiv, Kherson, Sumy, and Zaporizhzhia—are —exacting a deeply alarming human toll. Recent strikes in Kyiv are a stark reminder that this war continues to reach ever deeper into civilian life, damaging homes, schools, and public services. For thousands of civilians, this harm is life-changing and long-lasting. Beyond the major cities, frontline communities live under the constant threat posed by hostilities as do civilians living in areas occupied by the Russian Federation. Each day brings new civilian deaths and injuries, further displacement, and renewed disruption of electricity, water, sewage, and services essential for survival. Mr. President, in the Russian Federation, we also remain concerned by reports of civilian harm and damage to infrastructure. The absence of a United Nations monitoring presence does not diminish the seriousness of these reports. Mr. President, as the fighting intensifies, opportunities to reach civilians safely are narrowing. For example, in parts of Donetsk region, humanitarian access has been intermittently suspended, making it harder for humanitarians to help civilians leave these areas and for humanitarian relief to reach those who remain. International humanitarian law binds all parties to this armed conflict wherever they carry out military operations. The parties must apply it in good faith and minimize— and maximize, sorry— the protection of civilians and vital infrastructure on which they depend. Mr. President, humanitarian partners continue to respond rapidly with emergency shelter, cash assistance, protection services, psychological support, wherever they can. But the operating environment is becoming increasingly unpredictable and volatile as the evolving tactics of warfare change the risks faced by civilians, including humanitarian workers. As the civilian toll of hostilities expands in scale and geography, Humanitarian organizations are responding simultaneously to multiple emergencies while sustaining assistance to communities already enduring years of conflict. The dangers of delivering that assistance continues to increase. Just last week, a humanitarian convoy was struck by a drone in Ukraine-controlled Dnipro region, the third such incident in two months. Attacks also damaged a Ukrainian Red Cross warehouse, destroying humanitarian supplies intended for civilians. Overall, attacks harming humanitarian personnel and damaging their assets have increased by more than 20% compared to the same period last year. Mr. President, every attack denies civilians and humanitarian assistance that they need to survive. Humanitarian personnel and assets must be protected. Rapid and unimpeded passage of humanitarian relief for civilians in need must be facilitated. International humanitarian law requires it. Mr. President, the scope for practical humanitarian engagement is still there, and it can save lives. The United Nations Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs, remains ready to support practical arrangements that enable the delivery of aid to those who need it and safe voluntary civilian evacuations from areas of hostilities wherever they are and may choose to go. Mr. President, humanitarian organizations can only respond at the required pace and scale if they are able to remain safe and present to deliver. That requires protection for humanitarian personnel and assets, safe and sustained access, practical arrangements to facilitate humanitarian action. It also requires sustained and flexible funding. Without these elements, the reach of humanitarian organizations continues to contract while the needs of civilians continue to expand. Mr. President, the imperatives are clear. All states must use their influence to ensure respect for humanit— international humanitarian law. This means protecting civilians, including humanitarians, as well as critical infrastructure. It means ensuring that humanitarian organizations have unimpeded access to communities in need, wherever they are. Through engagement with both sides, practical arrangements can and must be put in place. Mr. President, whatever the pace of political efforts, civilians cannot wait. Their needs are immediate and growing. They need protection and assistance now. I urge the members of this Council to use their influence to pursue every practical opportunity to prevent further civilian suffering. I thank you.

I thank Mr. Ratouate for his briefing. I now give the floor to those Council members who wish to make statements. I give the floor to the representative of Latvia.

Thank you, Mr.

President.

I thank Under-Secretary-General Carlo and Acting ASG Ratwate for their factual and detailed briefings outlining the ever more severe impact of Russia's aggression on Ukrainian civilians. In the first 7 days of July, 93 Ukrainian civilians were killed and over 500 injured. Russia is using its most destructive weapons not only on the frontline, but also in densely populated civilian areas. Latvia strongly condemns these deliberate attacks against the Ukrainian civilian population. These are acts of desperation, emblematic of a failing war that is going nowhere. In recent months, Ukraine has conducted an effective campaign striking Russia's military installations, warehouses, military logistics hubs, and energy infrastructure supplying Russia's war economy. In doing so, Ukraine has exercised its legitimate right to self-defense against aggression in line with Article 51 of the Charter. By contrast, Russia has bombed apartment buildings, residential suburbs, and cultural objects, including a major printing warehouse, destroying over 800,000 books. And Ukraine urgently needs additional air defence to protect its civilians from this brutality. The Euro-Atlantic community continues to stand strong and united in its support to Ukraine's right of self-defence. Yesterday, 32 heads of state and government delivered a clear message from Ankara, and I quote, Ukraine contributes to transatlantic security, and Allies stand united in our unwavering support for Ukraine in defending its freedom, sovereignty and territorial integrity. End of quote. Indeed, this is a key takeaway. Ukraine is a security contributor, a contributor to European and global security, including our Gulf partners, a contributor to the defense of international law and human rights, a contributor to the defense of the UN Charter. Mr. President, Russia has lost over 1.4 million soldiers in this war. Up to 35,000 Russian soldiers are dying every month, several thousand above the recruitment rates. The Russian Armed Forces are experiencing the deadliest and slowest advance of any military campaign over the last century. The aggressor continues to increase the illicit recruitment of foreigners into its army and military industry using deceptive recruitment practices that target economically and socially vulnerable people, from Africa, Latin America, and Asia. Russia is also intensifying its aggressive policies to intimidate those supporting Ukraine's self-defense. Countries in the region, including my own country, Latvia, have faced Russia's campaigns of lies and threats, increasing hybrid activities and provocations. Latvia will continue to expose Russia's actions, lies, and deflection. Russia is trying to shed its pariah status in international politics and portray itself as a victim. In this regard, the International Olympic Committee's provisional decision to lift suspension of the Russian Olympic Committee is sending a dangerous message: accountability can wait while Russia's war continues. It is unacceptable. There should be no red carpets for Russia while missiles fall. Mr. President, Ukrainian society is united in fighting for its freedom, in a sovereign democratic Ukraine. Meanwhile, the Russian leadership fears accountability and its own people. On 24th of June, Russia imprisoned a political party leader for 7 years for sharing UN-verified data on social media regarding Russia's atrocities in Bucha. Russia arbitrarily delivers over a decade-long prison sentences to individuals who have donated as little as $50 US to charities providing humanitarian support to Ukraine. Russia has illegally and arbitrarily detained thousands of Ukrainian civilians, which constitutes grave violation of international humanitarian and international human rights law. Up to 92% of the released civilians report having experienced systemic torture or ill treatment during detainment. Civilians are not prisoners of war. And must not be used as bargaining chips. Latvia calls for immediate release of the detained civilians and underlines the importance of a full, all-for-all detainee exchange as part of just end to this war. Mr. President, all but one around this table have been calling for a ceasefire. We call on every country to put maximum pressure on Russia's leadership. The only obstacle to an immediate, full, and unconditional ceasefire meaningful negotiations. The measure of strength is not the ability to destroy cities, but the willingness to choose peace. I thank you.

I thank the representative of Latvia for the statement, and I now give the floor to the representative of Denmark.

Thank you, Mr.

President. And let me also thank Under-Secretary-General DiCarlo and Acting Assistant Secretary-General Ratouati for the informative briefings. Mr. President, we have convened once again to discuss another shocking escalation in Russia's attacks on Ukraine's civilian population. In this fifth year of senseless war against a peaceful neighbor in violation of the UN Charter, we continue to witness dangerous and reckless developments. As our briefers have stated, on the nights of 1st and 5th of July, Russia fired hundreds of long-range drones, cruise missiles, and ballistic missiles on Kyiv and other Ukrainian cities. These massive combined air attacks struck residential buildings, private houses, warehouses, commercial facilities, educational institutions, infrastructure sites, and medical facilities. They killed at least 63 civilians and injured more than 200 others. An extraordinary escalation— Russia's attacks on civilians, Civilians protected by international humanitarian law. Denmark firmly condemns these attacks and expresses its condolences to these latest victims, their families, and to all the victims of this war. On the second of these deadly summer nights in Kyiv, the main Red Cross warehouse was also struck, completely destroying a vital store of emergency response equipment and a central humanitarian distribution point. The Danish Red Cross has verified that 320,000 units of relief items and equipment were lost. This includes medical equipment such as stretchers and wheelchairs, emergency response items such as blankets and plastic sheeting for emergency window covering, and generators to provide essential services after attacks on civilian energy infrastructure. All in all, equipment and items of purely civilian use. The rules are clear. Humanitarian workers and aid facilities are protected under international humanitarian law. Denmark deplores this cynical strike on the Red Cross, which will only increase the suffering endured by Ukrainian civilians who turn to the Red Cross for life-saving assistance. Mr. President, Russia has repeatedly told us in this chamber that it only makes high-precision strikes against military targets. Yet we have all seen the distressing pictures of bodies recovered from the rubble, of high-rise homes flattened, and of places of worship in flames. Given the scale and attacks— of attacks and destruction, the only reasonable conclusion is that these civilians and civilian objects are indeed being deliberately targeted, or that they are victims of massive indiscriminate attacks. Either scenario is unacceptable and would constitute a clear violation of international humanitarian law. Denmark repeats its call for the full compliance with international law, including international humanitarian law and the UN Charter, without exception. And it demands full accountability and justice for all the crimes committed in Russia's war of aggression in Ukraine. Mr. President, in closing, Denmark remains convinced that the only way to alleviate the horrendous scale of civilian suffering in Ukraine is through an immediate and comprehensive ceasefire. We renew our call that such a ceasefire must then lead to good faith negotiations to secure a just and lasting peace in line with the UN Charter. It is high time that Russia also accepts the need for a ceasefire and serious peace talks. Russia— Denmark will continue to stand by Ukraine as it exercises its inherent right to self-defense. I thank you.

I thank the representative of Denmark for the statement, and I now give the floor to the representative of France.

Thank you, Mr. President, and thank you for convening this meeting, which is justified by the gravity of the fresh Russian attacks on civilians in Ukraine. I'd like to thank the Under-Secretary-General, Ms. Rosemary DiCarlo, and the Acting Assistant Secretary-General, Mr. Indrika Rattrate, for their briefings. This Council is once again meeting against the backdrop of an unrelenting escalation of violence targeting civilians in Ukraine's major cities, particularly its capital. Last week, Russia launched two large-scale attacks against Kyiv during the night of the 1st to the 2nd of July, and then again during the night of the 5th to the 6th of July. Several residential buildings were struck. The attacks killed 21 and then 31 people respectively, with dozens more injured on each occasion. In carrying out these attacks, Russia did not hesitate to use hypersonic missiles against civilian neighborhoods, including some missiles that were originally designed to strike warships. France strongly condemns these unacceptable unacceptable attacks, which are clearly yet another flagrant violation by Russia of international humanitarian law and its fundamental principles of distinction, precaution, and proportionality. France reaffirms its unwavering support for and solidarity with the Ukrainian people in the face of this ordeal. Mr. President, At the G7 summit in Évian, the G7 leaders came together to reaffirm the need to pursue support for Ukraine. In Ankara yesterday, NATO leaders reaffirmed their unwavering support for Ukraine, which is defending its freedom, its sovereignty, and its territorial integrity. On the 13th of July, the heads of state and government of the Coalition of the Willing will meet in Paris. To build on these commitments and to reaffirm our active solidarity with Ukraine and to work to implement robust security guarantees. Mr. President, Russia is stepping up its massive strikes against Ukraine while its progress on the front line has stalled due to the effective and brave resistance of the Ukrainian Armed Forces, which has made remarkable progress over the last few months. By persisting down the military path while Ukraine has already repeatedly proposed a comprehensive ceasefire several times, Russia continues to reject the many offers that have been made in recent months to engage in negotiations genuinely aimed at bringing this war to an end. Russia also shows disregard for the Secretary-General's call, supported by a large majority of UN member states, for an immediate, comprehensive, and unconditional ceasefire. Within this Council, Russia remains the only member state that has not called for an end to the fighting. With Ukraine and our European partners, we once again call on Russia to accept a comprehensive ceasefire opening the way to direct negotiations with Ukraine, with the participation of the United States and European partners, with a view to achieving a just and lasting peace. After the missed opportunities of recent months, Moscow must put an end to its irresponsible escalation and engage in in good faith on the path to peace. Thank you.

I thank the representative of France for the statement. I now give the floor to the representative of Greece.

Thank you, Mr. President.

I would like to begin by thanking you for convening this meeting and other Secretary General Di Carlo, as well as Acting Assistant Secretary General Ratouate, for their remarks. I also welcome the participation of Ukraine to this meeting. Mr. President, during the last few months, the world stands witness to new war crimes committed against Ukraine and its people in the context of Russia's illegal war of aggression. The frequency and scope of the sustained use of powerful explosive weapons, long-range missiles, and drones in populated areas of Ukraine is mounting. With devastating consequences. These consequences would have been avoided if international humanitarian law would have been duly respected. The latest 3 large-scale attacks with the use of hundreds such weapons only in 8 day— first days of July continue the same pattern. More than 50 civilians were killed and more than 180,000 were injured, mainly in Kyiv, but also in Kharkiv, Sumy, Dnipro, Zaporizhzhia, and Cherkasy. Residential buildings were targeted adjacent to schools and playgrounds and far removed from military infrastructure. Children were once more among the victims. Of particularly shocking nature was the strike against an ambulance substation injuring ambulance personnel, paramedics, and drivers.— as well as the strike against a Red Cross warehouse in Kyiv, destroying millions' worth of relief supplies. Ukrainian preparedness prevented even graver civilian harm, yet total casualties in July averaged 170 per day. Comprehensive UN data for the period beginning last December until end of May of this year show a staggering 40% increase of civilian casualties compared —comparing to the same period last year, and a horrifying 93% increase compared to the same period 2 years ago. Mr. President, war is a tragedy in and of itself. Attacks on civilians transform this inherent tragedy to humanitarian crisis by systematically violating fundamental principles of international law including distinction, proportionality, and precaution. One has to wonder what military advantage is to be gained by such escalation against civilians. Once more, Greece strongly condemns any deliberate attacks against civilians and civilian objects wherever they may occur. We call for strict adherence to these humanitarian principles and join the Secretary-General's appeal for urgent de-escalation. On the human rights front, the latest report of the OHCHR also documents systematic violations against Ukrainian prisoners of war and residents of the temporarily occupied territories of Ukraine. These violations include executions, torture and ill-treatment, arbitrary detention, forced conscription of protected persons, and forced military patriotic classes. In that regard, we call on Russia to cease these violations, allow access to the UN Human Rights Office for independent reporting, and hold those responsible into account. Mr. President, it has become abundantly clear that this protracted war must end immediately. Greece, along with the vast majority of this Council, has repeatedly called for a ceasefire. The essence of this appeal is one of the same: silencing the guns and escaping the vicious cycle of violence will allow for the resumption of dialogue and diplomacy. Therefore, I reiterate today Greece's firm conviction that an immediate and comprehensive ceasefire is needed now more than ever. As an important first step towards a negotiated, just, and lasting peace settlement based on international law, the UN Charter, and the principles of sovereignty, independence, and territorial integrity of all states. A settlement that will preclude the change of borders through the use of force and guarantee Ukraine's security and ability to defend its itself in the future. I thank you.

I thank the representative of Greece for the statement, and I now give the floor to the representative of Liberia.

Thank you. Thank you, Mr. President. I thank the Under-Secretary-General and the Acting Assistant-Secretary-General for their briefings. Together, they lay out a sobering picture of a conflict that is rapidly outgrowing both its geographic boundaries and our collective capacity to contain it. To the families of the more than 50 civilians killed in Kyiv in the overnight attacks of 1-2 July and 5-6 July, people who went to sleep in apartment buildings and did not wake up, We extend our deepest condolences. We mourn the 82 medical workers and 41 emergency responders killed this year while trying to save others, and the humanitarian deminers of Norwegian People's Aid killed in Kherson while clearing the ground so that others might one day walk it safely. And we grieve every innocent life this war has claimed, on whichever side of the border it was lived. Mr. President, the law admits no ambiguity. Attacks directed against civilians, or indiscriminate attacks in densely populated areas, are clear violations of international humanitarian law. Over 1,270 civilians killed and nearly 6,900 injured in 6 months, a 40% increase, as we've heard, over the previous year, is not collateral misfortune. It is the collapse of the architecture of humanity in warfare. Liberia demands strict observance of distinction, proportionality, and precaution by all parties, principles that remain paramount as we uphold the UN Charter and recall the found— the fundamental sovereignty and territorial integrity principles with which this conflict began. Mr. President, Liberia speaks today, as we continue to do, because we refuse to treat this escalating loss of civilian lives as a routine item on our agenda. The international discourse surrounding this conflict has fallen into a tyranny of the tactical, meticulously cataloging every missile, counting every drone, debating every casualty report, while remaining blind to the strategic abyss toward which, toward which All parties are speedily rushing. Missiles now fly for 12 hours over Kyiv. Drones now fly 2,700 kilometers into Siberia. Violations now touch the airspace of neighboring states. This is no longer a localized crisis. It is a fast-moving contagion. We are trapped, Mr. President, in a tragic paradox in which each battlefield escalation is increasingly treated as the path to diplomatic leverage—a deadly illusion, I must say, that risks deepening the war while moving peace further out of reach. One cannot buy diplomatic leverage with the currency of mutual ruin. By the time one side blinks, there will be nothing left to diplomatically negotiate. An ancient code dictates an eye for an eye, But pursued to its conclusion on a modern battlefield, that primitive calculus leaves nations blind, broken, and chewing on the ash of their own destruction. Mr. President, so Liberia poses a simple, profound Exercise of foresight. To all who hold the power of escalation, look back from the endgame. Look back from the day the final weapon falls silent. Infrastructure pulverized. A generation depleted, societies fractured, neighbors become enemies, and ask the only question history will unkindly remember: Was it worth it? If that final destination cannot justify the present ruin, then the conclusion must be inescapable: this trajectory must change, and it must change now. Excellencies, Liberia knows this truth, not from briefings, but from memory. We chose peace once, late and at terrible cost. We learned painfully, therefore, that peace made early is a good choice. Peace made late is bad and leaves all in ruins. Too costly, if not impossible. To rebuild. Mr. President, diagnosis without remedy is not statecraft. Therefore, Liberia proposes 3 concrete actionable steps. First, we call for an immediate verifiable moratorium on strikes against civilian energy, water, and residential infrastructure, serving as a critical confidence-building measure toward the full, immediate, and unconditional ceasefire called for by the Secretary-General. Second, we propose strengthening existing humanitarian deconfliction and notification networks through OCHA, ensuring that the verified coordinates of medical and aid personnel are rigorously respected as off-limits, with any systemic failures reported directly to this Council. Third, we urge renewed and structured support for the Secretary-General's good offices under Chapter 6 of the Charter, drawing upon a broader global coalition of member states, including the nations of Africa, Asia, and Latin America, whose people pay for this war daily in the inflation of food, fuel, and fertilizer, and who therefore hold a legitimate sovereign stake in its resolution. Mr. President, sovereignty and territorial integrity are foundational, non-negotiable pillars of the Charter, and Liberia stands firmly by them. Let history record that this Council did not quietly watch the graves of this war multiply. To those who hold the power to stop this war, we say: Step back from the precipice. Choose the agonizing necessary courage of diplomacy. End this war now. Because the only peace left behind by total attrition is the peace of the graveyard. But the peace built on the Charter is a future of justice and security for all people. I thank you for your kind attention.

I thank the representative of Liberia. I now give the floor to the representative of the Russian Federation.

Good morning, Mr. President. Today, the members of the Security Council once again have to waste time in a meeting, although the positions of the parties are well known to everyone. But it is difficult for Western colleagues to decline an opportunity to once again try and drum into you the invented narrative about an innocent Ukraine allegedly saving the world from Russia, the aggressor. The scenario of such meetings is predictable and has not changed for more than 4 years. What is being read out during such meetings is a set of unfounded accusations against our country and routine phrases about alleged commitment to peace. Well, maybe they will add something new, like the phrases "enough is enough." At the same time, they will not talk about the root causes of the Ukrainian conflict and their direct role in stoking its fire. The crisis in Ukraine did not begin in February 2022. Anyone who says otherwise is either poorly versed in the topic or is simply lying in an attempt to avoid responsibility for the tragic events that they themselves provoked. For many years, Western money in Ukraine was being used to cultivate anti-Russian sentiments. Then in 2014, an anti-constitutional coup d'état was staged. With the direct support of Western countries, nationalist forces were brought to power, which immediately began repressions against the Russian-speaking population of Donbas and the Crimea. For those who have forgotten, I will remind you that under the leadership of Zelensky, who promised peace, dialogue, and unity in the elections in 2019, Ukraine ended up being the implementation of the anti-Russia project, alien to the people and aimed at destroying not just the historic memory, but also the very cultural and spiritual identity of millions of its people. The right to life, language, and security of the residents of Donbas who have been under shelling, blockade, and the threat of physical destruction all these years has been cynically trampled underfoot. It was under Zelensky that the persecution of the Ukrainian Orthodox Church, persecution of monks and the destruction of Orthodox shrines took on its ugly and tragic forms. At the same time, the West was not an idle outside observer of the unfolding tragic events. To the contrary, it was the West who all these years nurtured the Kiev regime and used, used the guise of the Minsk agreements to pump Ukraine weapons and eventually turned it into a springboard for war with Russia. In this regard, the special military operation was a necessary response to the militarization of Ukraine, terror against the inhabitants of Donbas, and a direct threat to Russia's security. Mr. President, European colleagues can talk as much as they wish about peace, humanity, and the protection of civilians, but it has long been impossible to hide the main thing behind this hypocritical rhetoric, namely that they are direct participants in the conflict around Ukraine—money, weapons, ammunition, intelligence, targeting, military training, and logistics, and very importantly, torpedoing any outlines of peace negotiations have long turned into elements of a single strategy aimed at inflicting maximum damage on Russia using the hands of Ukrainians. They are not stopped by the blood of civilians or the death of women, the elderly, and children. And do you know why? Because they do not care how many people die, both in Russia and in Ukraine. All of this verbal humanism is not worth a penny. They will continue to arm Kyiv, knowing full well that this will inevitably lead to new tragedies, casualties, and destruction. At the same time, it is not those who make decisions in the comfortable offices of Brussels, Berlin, Paris, and London who pay for this outrageous policy, but rather the ordinary Europeans whose incomes and security become a bargaining chip for other people's geopolitical games. And instead of supporting their own citizens, providing humanitarian assistance to those most in need of it, or fulfilling their development assistance commitments, which would be much more in keeping with the moral character they paint for themselves here, instead of that, Western countries continue to funnel billions to support the corrupt regime in Kiev. Um, uh, more than that, for the military-industrial complex of these countries, Ukraine has become a real gold mine. The thesis that Russia is being defeated, but maybe a little bit more, and it will attack NATO countries— this is a kind of thesis that runs counter elementary logic. However, it continues to be drummed into the heads of European citizens and members of the international community. Because all of this militarization must be justified somehow. And this has become a mockery of the mental abilities of those who, in principle, is capable of putting two and two together. But the Europeans' eyes are sparkling. Could we try to defeat Russia again? Unleash an even bigger war, and maybe this time it will work out? And this is confirmed by the announcement following the NATO summit in Ankara on July 8th of over the allocation of €70 billion for military assistance to Ukraine with keeping the same level of support next year. At the same time, it is being emphasized that the confrontation between the Alliance and Russia is existential in nature. What this existential nature consists of, however, is not being explained. Mr. President, multibillion-dollar injections into the corrupt Kyiv regime and a sense of complete immunity led to the final loss of any shame by Zelensky. The blowing up of the North Stream, attempts on the lives of inconvenient persons on the territory of EU countries is one part of the story, which it is already difficult to sweep under the carpet. But something else is even more terrible. Purely terrorist strikes are being carried out against civilian populations, residential areas, public and private transport, social institutions, as well as vital facilities fuel and energy complex. Over the past 3 months, over 55,000 different kinds of ammunition and drones have been produced. From June 29th to July 5th, 308 peaceful Russians suffered from the terror of the Armed Forces of Ukraine. 270 people were injured, including 8 children. 38 people died, including 1 child. Amongst the most serious crimes of the Armed Forces of Ukraine over the past week alone were the attack on the city market in Tokmak, where 5 civilians were killed, attack on a bus in Lysychansk, the death of a 6-month-old girl in a drone strike on a residential building in Yegoryevsk in Moscow region. On July 2nd, in the Bryansk region, a Ukrainian drone attacked a tourist bus following the route from Minsk to from Luhansk to Anapa. 3 people were injured. This is the second attack on citizens of Belarus in 2 weeks. On June 29th, the Security Council already met at the request of our Belarusian colleagues in connection with the strike by the Armed Forces of Ukraine on a bus with children. There is no doubt about Bankovaya's conscious desire to expand the geography of the conflict to provoke Minsk to take tough retaliatory measures and to draw Belarus into further escalation. The Armed Forces of Ukraine continue attacks on Russian peaceful nuclear facilities. On July 5th, a Ukrainian aircraft-type UAV hit the cooling tower of the Kursk NPP-2 power unit under construction. As a result, a hole with a diameter of 2 meters was formed. Attacks on the satellite city of the Zaporizhzhia station and Ergodar do not stop. From June 29th to July 6th, um, the south checkpoint, the building of the Ministry of Emergency Situations, residential buildings, and trucks were attacked. Two people were injured. And this is not military valor. This is a dangerous adventure with potentially catastrophic consequences for the entire region. The Zelensky regime continues to play with fire, completely giving no thought whatsoever to the far-reaching consequences of its criminal actions. And he's constantly being indulged in this. Under these circumstances, what is regrettable is the selective approach and double standards of the UN Secretariat. Over the past week, the UN Secretary-General has twice condemned Russia's strikes, allegedly on civilian targets in Ukraine. We categorically reject the unfounded accusations. At the same time, numerous attacks by the Armed Forces of Ukraine on civilian infrastructure and terrorist attacks against civilians on the territory of Russia have not received and do not receive direct condemnation from UN officials. We are also surprised by a detailed statement by Mr. Karlo about human rights violations in the Crimea. Those who are dissenters— dissenting in Ukraine are either killed or jailed or have left the country. In Latvia, also, people are jailed.— who are protecting the rights of Russian speakers, Alexander Butonenko and Viktor Gushchenko and many others. On the fact that the Russian language is legislatively banned in Ukraine, that if you speak Russian, you can pay for this with your health or even life, do you consider that to be a normal situation? We are awaiting from António Guterres' reaction to our letter where we draw attention to the most recent egregious steps undertaken by Zelensky in this regard. We are also waiting for Mr. Guterres' reaction to the photo and video materials from the site of the tragedy in Starobelsk, as well as the recordings of witness testimonies which we handed over to the Director of the UN Information Center in Moscow, Mr. Kuznetsov, during a meeting at the Russian Foreign Ministry on June 6th. And we are ready to assist UN representative in conducting a verification visit to Starobelsk from Moscow. As was done on June 2nd by the ICRC delegation. Mr. President, the crimes of the Kiev regime cannot go unpunished. On the night of July 5th to 6th, in response to terrorist attacks, the Russian Armed Forces struck using high-precision long-range weapons and attack UAVs at military-industrial complex facilities as well as the infrastructure of military airfields in the Dnipropetrovsk, Poltava, Cherkasy, Chernihiv, and Kyiv regions. In Kyiv and the Kyiv region, enterprises involved in the production of weapons were hit. In addition, a blow was inflicted on fuel supply facilities which are being used in the interest of the Armed Forces of Ukraine. The targets of the attacks were not civilian objects as Ukrainian propaganda is trying to present but elements of military infrastructure directly used to conduct hostilities against Russia. The whole world saw footage of the secondary detonation of an allegedly civilian object, but in fact an ammunition depot in the suburbs of Kyiv in the town of Vyshnyove. And this is a clear confirmation of the fact that the civilian population of Ukraine is being used as human shields. Another popular narrative amongst Ukrainians is that Kiev is seizing the initiative on the battlefield. But, but no. Since the beginning of the year, 133 population centers have been liberated and more than 3,000 square kilometers of the territory in Donbas and Novorossiya have been taken under control. In June alone, 29 population centers were liberated. Full control has been established over Konstantinovka, which is the most important component of the Slavyansk Luhansk-Kramatorsk-Konstantinovka fortified area. That's the truth. But in their pursuit of the next tranche, Zelensky is selling strikes on Russian infrastructure to the West as some imaginary turning point that is about to force Russia to agree to a ceasefire. And again, no. Our hearing is excellent, and we hear statements made by the representative of the Kyiv regime, including the head of Zelensky's office, Budanov, When they say that they are not thinking about any kind of real peace in Kyiv, they are ready in Kyiv to fight for years, bringing, I quote, escalation to the maximum and essentially pushing their country towards self-destruction. We also hear perfectly well how Kyiv's Western patrons, hiding behind the rhetoric of peace, encourage attacks deep into Russia. They say that they will help end the war. Escalation will not lead to peace. It will lead to more destruction and victims. And there is no reason whatsoever for the Russian Federation to stop pursuing the implementation of all of the goals of the special military operation. I thank you for your attention.

I thank the representative of the Russian Federation. I now give the floor to the representative of China.

Chinese President Xi Jinping: President, I would like to thank US GTI Carlo and Acting ASG Rasmussen for their briefings. The present development of the Ukraine situation is a cause for concern. Parties conduct frequent military attacks with higher intensity and greater scale and larger scale than before— larger scope than before, resulting in significant civilian casualties and infrastructure damage. China condemns any attacks against innocent civilians and calls on relevant parties to cease attacks on civilians and civilian infrastructure. In light of the recent development, as well as the briefings just given, I would like to offer the following observations. First, it's necessary to exercise restraint and make every effort to de-escalate the situation. Recently, the parties have been caught up in a vicious circle of military confrontation and retaliation, which not only inflicts inflicts profound sufferings on civilians, but also further fuels hatred and intensifies conflicts, making the path to peace negotiations even more arduous and torturous. The parties should remain calm and exercise restraint, strictly abide by international humanitarian law, and make every effort to de-escalate, thereby creating conditions for an earlier ceasefire and an end to hostilities. Second, it's necessary to remain patient and strive to resume dialogue and negotiations. Recently, the major parties continue to their positions on peace talks. Although differences remain significant, they all support a political solution to the crisis and hope for early peace. This is a hard-to-find consensus. The parties should remain patient, actively demonstrate political will, resume dialogue and negotiations at the earliest opportunity, and strive to reach a comprehensive, lasting, and binding peace agreement. Third, it is necessary to remain rational and address each other's security concerns. No negotiation is smooth sailing, and no conflict is resolved overnight. This is particularly true for the Ukraine issue. As parties have their own respective security concerns, they should find the greatest common denominator that accommodates each other's security concerns, eliminate the root causes of the conflict in accordance with the principles of the UN Charter, promote the establishment of a balanced, effective, and sustainable regional security architecture, and achieve long-term stability and peace in the region. President Xi, China has consistently upheld an objective and impartial stance on the Ukraine issue. Guided by the four shoes proposed by President Xi Jinping, we are committed to a political solution of the crisis, actively maintaining communication and engagement with all parties, and persisting in our efforts to promote peace talks in our own way. China would like to continue working with the international community and play a constructive role in advancing an early political solution to the crisis. Thank you, President.

I thank the representative of China for the statement. I now give the floor to the representative of Somalia.

Thank you, Mr. President. At the outset, we thank USG DiCarlo and Acting ASG Ratwati for their comprehensive briefing. As we gather here today, our delegation remains deeply concerned by the ongoing hostilities and the continued worsening of humanitarian and security situation in Ukraine. Recent developments demonstrate that the longer this conflict continues, the more human suffering is prolonged and the prospect for sustainable peace diminishes. Mr. President, our delegation is deeply troubled by the continuous escalation of military actions, including those targeting civilian— critical civilian infrastructure. The protection of civilians and civilian infrastructure, including the preservation of schools, homes, and hospitals, are non-negotiable obligations enshrined in international humanitarian law. In this regard, we call on all parties to strictly adhere to their obligations under international humanitarian law. Mr. President, we remain convinced that there is no military solution to this protracted conflict. Diplomacy and dialogue are the only viable means bringing this crisis to an end. We reiterate that all parties must prioritize de-escalation, exercise utmost restraint, and commit to immediate and comprehensive ceasefire. While we note the current diplomatic efforts are on hold, We welcome the recent efforts to keep communication channels open, including renewed high-level political dialogue and discussions aimed at establishing accelerated timeline for peace. We continue to encourage international initiatives that can lay the groundwork for constructive path to a cessation of hostilities. Mr. President, a durable and just resolution of this conflict must address the underlying causes of the conflict. And fully be consistent with the purpose and principles of the United Nations Charter. Lasting peace will require compromise, confidence-building measures, and shared vision of common and sustainable security. In closing, Mr. President, my delegation reaffirms its unwavering support for all diplomatic efforts to aim at achieving a resolution that restores peace, security, and stability in the region. I thank you. Thank you.

I thank the representative of Somalia for the statement, and I now give the floor to the representative of the United States.

Thank you, Mr. President, and thank you, Under-Secretary DiCarlo and ASG Ratvate, for your briefings today. Russia's most recent attacks on Kyiv between July 2nd and July 6th attacks reportedly killed at least 50 civilians and injured many more. Images show apartment buildings destroyed and civilians grappling with the destruction. Videos show first responders fighting to contain fires and to rescue those trapped under rubble. Civilians are enduring the brunt of this senseless violence. The United States stands with Ukrainian citizens who continue to withstand attacks that destroy their homes, critical infrastructure, and cultural heritage. We need no more evidence of why the war must end. Neither should the Russian Federation. As it continues to take nearly 40,000 casualties each month. President Trump has made clear that Russia should make a deal, stop the killing, and end the war. Time is not on its side. Both sides must return to the negotiating table, as there is no military solution to this war. The United States remains committed to President Trump's objectives of achieving an immediate ceasefire and a negotiated resolution of the Russia-Ukraine war as soon as possible. I thank you.

I thank the representative of the United States for the statement. I now give the floor to the representative of The United Kingdom.

Thank you, President. And I thank USG DiCarlo and Acting ASG Ratwaté for briefing us today. The Council meets today because Russia continues to choose escalation over peace. Since we last met, Russia has launched not one but two massive attacks on Ukraine, with devastating consequences for civilians. This past weekend, Russia launched 351 drones and 68 missiles against Ukraine, primarily targeting Kyiv. At least 26 civilians were killed, more than 120 injured. This is not an isolated incident, but rather part of a deliberate and escalating campaign of long-range strikes against Ukrainian cities. Russia has now launched 5 mass strikes involving 70-plus missiles since 23 May. Before that, we'd only seen a single such strike in the previous year. These are not just numbers. They represent apartment blocks shattered in the middle of the night. Families forced into shelters. Children woken by air raid sirens. And civilians killed and injured in their own homes. Behind every missile and drone is a conscious decision by Russia to bring its war deeper into Ukrainian cities, inflicting fear, trauma, and suffering on millions of people. But to what end? No one can mistake these as actions of a state seeking peace. They are the actions of a state prolonging war. War which has failed to achieve Putin's imperialistic ambitions and that fails to substantiate false narratives, as we again heard today, used to justify such devastation. Russia speaks half-heartedly of negotiations while intensifying its attacks. It claims to want security while violating the sovereignty and territorial integrity of its neighbor. Every member of this Council is calling for fighting to stop, but Russia refuses to listen. This escalation will not bring peace, More civilian casualties will not bring a sustainable settlement. President, after 5 years in the Council, this will be my last meeting, and I thank colleagues for their partnership as I have rotated around this table 4 times in 60 months, wrestling with conflict and crisis from Africa and the Middle East to Asia and Latin America. For 4 and a half of those years, our work here has taken place in the shadow of Russia's brazen, illegal war against Ukraine. In January 2022, I warned that any Russian invasion or act of aggression against Ukraine would be a gross breach of international law and Russia's commitments under the Charter. That conflict would result in terrible bloodshed and destabilize the entire international community. And it would lead to civilians caught in the crossfire, families grieving the loss of fallen soldiers on both sides. At the time, the Russian representative denied any plans to invade. He called Western warnings warnings of a Russian attack hysterical and provocative. As tanks rolled into Ukraine on the 24th of February in the so-called military operation, a phrase again I heard used today, Putin said, "We are not going to impose anything on anyone." So here we are, 4.5 years later, Ukrainian sovereignty violated and territory occupied. Over 65,000 Ukrainian civilian casualties. 1.4 million Russian soldiers dead or injured. Nations across the world are calling for a ceasefire to end this senseless war. All members of this Council have called for de-escalation, and yet Russia refuses. The way forward is clear. Russia must stop its attacks, agree to a ceasefire, and engage seriously in negotiations for comprehensive, just, and lasting peace in line with the UN Charter. And this has been the case from day one. Bringing an end to the senseless slaughter is entirely in Russia's hands. I thank you.

I thank the representative of the United Kingdom for the statement. I now give the floor to the representative of Pakistan.

Thank you, Mr. President. I thank USG DiCarlo and Acting ASG Rathwate for their briefings. We meet yet again to deliberate on this conflict which regrettably continues to rage. It is deplorable regrettable that the overwhelming calls for ending hostilities and pursuing the path of dialogue, both inside and outside of this chamber, remain unheeded. Instead, there is escalation with intensification in attacks by both parties. The sharp uptick in fighting and expansion of the battlefield is not only compounding the humanitarian plight in the affected areas, but is also pushing the parties apart. Entrenching mistrust and shrinking political space for dialogue, further diminishing the prospects for peace. President, we reiterate our call for protection of civilians and civilian infrastructure and of humanitarian personnel, and for the parties to abide by their international humanitarian law obligations without any exception. The increasingly dangerous and perilous path that this conflict has taken needs to be reversed. This can only be achieved by investing more in dialogue and diplomacy and not military means. Clearly, the primary responsibility for this rests with the parties. In this context, we again underscore the need for an immediate and complete cessation of hostilities and the resumption of meaningful dialogue in earnest. Mutually acceptable peaceful settlement consistent with the purposes and principles of the UN Charter and corresponding to the legitimate security interests of all sides and the relevant multilateral agreements remains the only viable path to lasting peace. Pakistan will continue to support all efforts aimed at achieving a just, comprehensive, durable, and peaceful resolution of this conflict. I thank you.

I thank the representative of Pakistan for the statement, and I now give the floor to the representative of Bahrain.

Thank you, Mr. President. I would like to thank Mr. Carlo, Under-Secretary-General for Political and Peacebuilding Affairs, and Mr. Ratwate, Assistant Secretary-General for Humanitarian Affairs and Deputy Emergency Relief Coordinator, and I would like to welcome all of the participants in this meeting today. The Kingdom of Bahrain has been following with a great deal of concern the intensification of the escalation in the context of the Russian-Ukrainian war, as well as the increased attacks against two parties which resulted in greater civilian casualties We deplore the increased number of victims amongst civilians, and amongst them children. We call for full respect of international law, international humanitarian law, in particular the principles of the protection of civilian and civilian infrastructure. The Kingdom of Bahrain, Mr. President, expresses its regret having to do with increased number of civilians, victims, and this compounds the humanitarian suffering and civilian suffering. The broadening of military operations, which is now beyond the front lines, as well as using the long-range missiles and drones, reaffirms reaffirms the absolute need to intensify international efforts so as to arrive at an immediate ceasefire and bring together the conditions which are needed to launch a serious political process allowing for a peaceful and comprehensive and lasting settlement of the situation. In this regard, we call on all of the parties to immediately undertake measures for de-escalation. And to preserve the civilians, in particular women and children, save them from bloodbath and violence, and to protect the civilians from the repercussions of this conflict, the parties must participate in good faith in the ongoing discussions with the mediation of the United States so as to arrive at a lasting ceasefire and put an end to this war and avoid a new bloodletting and civilian suffering, and reduce the divergence between the two parties, and thus create conditions necessary for lasting and comprehensive peace, allowing to restore peace and stability on the European continent. In conclusion, I would like to say that dialogue and diplomacy remain the proper way of resolving this conflict, and we call for continued international efforts so as to arrive at a political solution in line with the UN Charter and so as to preserve international stability. Thanks.

I thank Bahrain for their statement. I now give the floor to the representative of Panama.

Thank you, Mr. President. We'd like to thank Ms. Rosemary DiCarlo, Under-Secretary-General for Political and Peacebuilding Affairs, and Mr. Indrika Ratwate, Acting Assistant Secretary-General of OCHA, for the valuable briefings on the situation on the ground. We acknowledge the participation of the representatives of the distinguished delegations joining us in the room. The Security Council The Security Council is meeting once again today to address the war in Ukraine and its serious humanitarian consequences. This is the 32nd meeting on this conflict since Panama began its term as an elected member of the Council in 2025. Underscoring the fact that the situation remains deadlocked at the political level Every day that passes without tangible progress towards a cessation of hostilities represents lives that could have been saved through genuine political will and effective dialogue. Far from being confined to the front lines, the war continues to affect residential areas, hospitals, schools, and other civilian infrastructure, where attacks with countless drones and missiles continue to claim lives and destroy basic services for the civilian population. This reality continues to gradually erode respect for international law and the principles enshrined in the Charter of the United Nations. And it continues to further diminish the prospects for a political solution, the only solution that will ultimately prevail given that there can be no military solution to the conflict. For this reason, Panama once again reiterates its continued and permanent call for a for ceasefire and for parties to fully comply with international law, including international humanitarian law. Mr. President, wars do not end when the sound of weapons falls silent or when one party stops fighting. They end when the political will and determination of all parties involved to build peace prevails. Peace demands difficult decisions, but postponing these only increases the loss of human life in the conflict. Consequently, Panama believes that this council should be much more than a forum for discussion. It must become the forum where political will converges and where a genuine commitment to prioritizing peace over the continuation of the conflict prevails. Thank you.

I thank the representative of Panama for the statement, and I now give the floor to the representative of Colombia. Gracias.

Thank you, Mr. President. I'm grateful for the convening of this meeting and for the briefings provided by the Under-Secretary-General, Ms. Rosemary DiCarlo, and by the Acting Assistant Secretary-General for Humanitarian Affairs, Mr. Indrika Ratwate. I also extend my greetings to the delegations joining us in our meeting today. The recent developments of the situation in Ukraine confirm that any further escalation will only deepen human suffering and heighten the risks to regional peace and stability. The continued attacks against populated areas. The increasingly intensive use of long-range weapons and incidents affecting other states reveal that the consequences of this war extend far beyond the battlefield. Preventing further escalation is therefore a responsibility owed both to regional security and to the protection of the civilian population. Against this backdrop, Colombia reaffirms the obligation to respect and ensure respect for international law, in particular international humanitarian law. The protection of the civilian population, of infrastructure essential to their survival, and of humanitarian personnel is and must must remain a constant priority. My delegation also stresses the need to ensure rapid, sustained, safe, and unimpeded humanitarian access for those providing assistance to persons affected by the conflict. I would also like to address the situation of prisoners of war. Their humane treatment in accordance with the Geneva Conventions is a binding legal obligation. All persons deprived of their liberty in connection with the conflict must be protected from torture, cruel, inhuman, or degrading treatment, and any other violations of their rights. It is both necessary and urgent to facilitate access for the relevant humanitarian mechanisms to verify their detention conditions and to help safeguard their dignity. Mr. President, Colombia welcomes the recent exchanges of prisoners of war. I commend the States and other actors whose good offices and facilitation efforts made these agreements possible. These initiatives are of profound humanitarian value for the individuals and families concerned, but they also send out a message of hope even in the midst of a conflict of this magnitude. Dialogue does remain possible. Prisoner exchanges and other humanitarian measures should not be viewed as isolated achievements. They too can serve as confidence-building measures that help preserve channels of communication between the parties while contributing to alleviating human suffering. Every measure that protects human dignity and lives, every humanitarian exchange, and every channel of dialogue that remains open represents a step in the right direction. These avenues must be preserved and expanded. The prospects for peace will, to a large extent, depend on the political will of of the parties to bring the hostilities to an end and to build a negotiated, peaceful, and lasting solution to the conflict. For this reason, Colombia reiterates its call for an immediate ceasefire that is verifiable and supported by effective monitoring mechanisms so as to facilitate humanitarian access and give rise to the conditions necessary to advance towards meaningful negotiations. Experience has shown that peace processes require trust, but also mechanisms capable of verifying compliance with the commitments undertaken by the parties. Colombia will continue to support all mediation and facilitation efforts aimed at bringing the parties closer together. We call on the members of this council to support and strengthen these initiatives since we remain convinced that every opportunity to build trust is also an opportunity to achieve peace. Thank you very much.

I thank the representative of Colombia for the statement. And I will now make a statement in my capacity as representative of the Democratic Republic of the Congo.

I thank Ms. Rosemary DiCarlo and Mr. Indrika Ratwate for their comprehensive briefings. The Democratic Republic of the Congo remains concerned about the continuation of hostilities despite the Council's many calls for de-escalation and restraint. My delegation notes with regret that the military logic seems to be irremediably taking precedence over the political and diplomatic efforts, which are essential for a lasting settlement of this conflict, to the detriment of the civilian population, especially women and children, who are paying a heavy price. Reaffirming its deep commitment to the purposes and principles of the United Nations Charter and to respect for international law, international humanitarian law, the Democratic Republic of the Congo reiterates that there can be no military solution to this conflict. The information brought to the Council's attention in recent weeks once again demonstrates the considerable human cost of the continuation— of hostilities. Even today, the observation remains the same. The intensification of military operations with increasing use being made of drones, missiles, and other sophisticated weapons only increases the exposure of civilian populations to the effects of hostilities and makes the protection of the infrastructure essential to their survival ever more fragile. The Democratic Republic of the Congo cannot remain indifferent to these consequences, particularly humanitarian ones, which continue to punctuate the course of this war. In fact, in addition to the loss of life, there are also population displacements, destruction of livelihoods, disruption of essential services, and trauma that will continue to have a lasting impact on future generations. These realities cannot be ignored under any circumstances and are a reminder of the magnitude of the human cost of this conflict. Conflict and the urgency of putting an end to this spiral. In this regard, my delegation would like to recall the following 3 points. First, the Democratic Republic of the Congo reaffirms that all parties to the conflict are under obligation to fully comply with their obligations under international law, including international humanitarian law and international human rights The protection of civilians and civilian objects must remain a top priority in all circumstances. Secondly, no military escalation can create the conditions for lasting peace. As we have previously indicated, each new offensive further distances the prospects of a negotiated settlement while aggravating the suffering of the civilian population. Only de-escalation, restraint, and the resumption of a sincere dialogue will pave the way for a political solution in accordance with the purposes and principles of the Charter of the United Nations. Thirdly, my delegation calls on all parties to refrain from any action that could further aggravate the situation and to give priority without delay to the channels of dialogue, mediation, and diplomacy in accordance with the spirit of the United Nations Charter. In conclusion, the Democratic Republic of the Congo recalls that it is incumbent on the Security Council, in accordance with its responsibilities under the United Nations Charter, to continue its efforts to promote a peaceful settlement of this conflict. My delegation Russia will continue to support any credible initiative that can promote de-escalation, protect civilian populations, and bring the parties closer to a just and lasting peace in accordance with international law. I thank you. I resume my function as President of the Council, and I now give the floor to Ukraine.

Thank you, Mr. President. I thank the Presidency of the Democratic Republic of the Congo for convening this meeting and express my deep gratitude to the delegations of Denmark, France, Greece, Latvia, and the United Kingdom for supporting our request for this meeting. I also express my appreciation to the distinguished briefers, Under-Secretary-General Di Carlo and Acting Assistant Secretary-General Ratvate, for presenting evidence evidence of new war crimes committed by Russia against Ukrainian civilians. Mr. President, before I turn to my main remarks, I would like to refute yet another torrent of absurd claims and fabrications that we have just heard. As George Orwell famously captured in his novel 1984, three slogans for the totalitarian state that distorted the reality and allowed to control its society and justify all foreign conflicts, and I quote, "War is peace. Freedom is slavery. Ignorance is strength." End of the quote. And today, the representative of Russian Federation has demonstrated to us exact Orwellian inversion of reality in action. Thus, sitting here at this chamber, Russia proposes us to believe that deliberate missile and drone strikes of residential buildings is a legitimate way of warfare. Russia wants us to believe that occupation of Ukrainian cities totally destroyed by Russian forces means liberation. Russia continue attempts to persuade the world that their full-scale military invasion of Ukraine is for peace and security. Nobody would ever fall for aggressor lies here. The reality is well known, and it is totally different from Russian propaganda. Russia launched this unprovoked war of aggression against peaceful nation more than 12 years ago.— and now continues to abuse its seat in this Council. And we don't have to forget that its presence here is illegal and it should be removed from this Council entirely. Mr. President, we requested this emergency meeting because we are witnessing yet another intensification of Russian terror against Ukrainian civilians. And as it was also mentioned by other Security Council members here, Russia has increased its missile and drone strikes attacks against our cities. This leads not to peace, but to more destruction and deaths. May and June were among the deadliest months for Ukrainians for the last 4 years. This is the fact supported by the UN reports. Unfortunately, July is continuing this tragic and barbaric trend. Every day, Russian missiles, bombs, drones target residential buildings and civilian infrastructure across Ukraine. Kyiv remains the primary target of all these attacks and suffers from devastating consequences. On the night of 2nd July, Russia launched 74 missiles, 496 drones against Ukraine, killing 31 people and injuring more than 100 others, including 4 children. Following the same strategy, on the night of 6th July, another Russian massive attack of 68 missiles missiles and 351 attack drones against Kyiv and Kyiv region was carried out. That night, Russia killed 28 people. Among the victims, as mentioned by the USG DiCarlo, was a 12-year-old boy whose body, along with that of his mother, was recovered from the rubble of a residential apartment building in Kyiv. More than 130 people were injured, including 9 children. These are the casualties in Kyiv and its neighborhood. But Russian attacks target other Ukrainian cities as well. Kharkiv, Odessa, Zaporizhzhia, Dnipro, Sumy, Kramatorsk remain under consistent threat of missiles, drones, and bombs. The death toll of Ukrainian civilians since beginning of July continues to rise. On 1st July, at least 6 people were killed, 72 injured. 3rd July, 16 people killed. 62 injured. 4th July: at least 4 were killed and 56 were injured. This is not just mere statistics, but a tragedy for all my compatriots. Mr. President, the Kremlin resorts to the strategy of massive terror to intimidate and force Ukrainians to surrender. Russia deliberately targets residential buildings and civilian infrastructure. Russia is also deliberately creating unbearable living conditions in temporarily occupied territories. Despite repeated calls by OCHA and Red Cross, Russia continues to push thousands of innocent Ukrainians whose homes remain under the temporary occupation in Ukraine's Kherson region to the brink of survival, severely restricting their access to food, water, and other basic necessities. Today, the name of the Russian-occupied town of Oleshky Oleksiyivskyi, has become one of the symbols of the humanitarian crisis caused by the Russian occupation throughout this war. Russia is unable to ensure even the most basic standards of safety and well-being of Ukrainians living under its occupation, nor is it willing to allow civilians to leave the temporarily occupied territories. Instead, Russia once again resorts to its usual tactic of shifting responsibility, blaming the victim while falsifying the acts, spreading propaganda. All these actions amount to war crimes and crimes against humanity. But let us be clear here. This strategy of terror is a complete failure, as was the plan to invade Kyiv in 3 days. Ukraine won't be coerced into accepting a sham peace. Since the start of this full-scale military invasion, Russian military has given no fewer than 15 deadlines to occupy the entirety of Ukraine's Donetsk region. Every single one of those deadlines passed without success. Nor will these objectives be achieved this year or next year. Russia's false claims regarding the capture of Konstantynivka are yet another example of systematic disinformation campaign. But the reality on the ground tells a very different story. Russia is not winning, and its monthly battlefield losses have reached levels that are increasingly difficult to sustain. Their losses are rising every day. Once a soldier is signed up to fight, he can expect to live for just 10 days to 3 weeks from their arrival at the training center to death at the battlefield. In May alone, Russia lost more than 30,000 soldiers. In June, approximately 28,000 soldiers. Despite suffering these losses, Russia has achieved only limited and incremental advances along the front line. Also, our strike capabilities have evolved. We effectively implemented our middle and deep strike sanctions against Russian war machine and continue to significantly constrain Russia's ability to sustain and expand its aggression. We are targeting Russian military bases and war-supporting industry, oil refinery plants, its logistic hubs, and other military targets. We are implementing our inherent right to self-defense and attack military potential of the aggressor, in full compliance with the norms of international law. Our aim is to deprive Russia of the weapons and resources which fuel its war of aggression against Ukraine. Mr. President, Russia started this war in 2014. So the Kremlin bears full responsibility for all consequences of such decision. Unlike Putin, we are not fighting this war because of unrealized imperial ambitions. Against geopolitical fantasies. Together with our Allies and partners, we are defending our land, people and future. And we are very grateful for the partners' support in line with Article 51 of the United Nations Charter. And we are also grateful to NATO members for their support and assistance announced in Ankara. For the numerous times Ukraine confirmed its readiness to immediate ceasefire and peace talks. On June 4th, President of Ukraine sent an open letter to Putin, once again offering to end the war. And we continue our talks with the United States and other Allies on finding the most effective way to stop it. But Russia has no desire to do it. Moscow continues to reject every genuine peace initiative. Even today, in this chamber, instead of finding a way how to stop it, Moscow justifies the killings and spreads propaganda. But you can't escape from the responsibility for your crimes. Times. Russia's aggression can only be stopped through the strength and through practical actions. So first, support Ukraine's defense capability against the aggressor. It's not the escalation, but the only strategy to restore peace and to save lives. Today, Ukraine is the only country in the world that faces massive ballistic attacks almost every day, and we need support to resist this threat. Every day, in delivering interceptors like Pak-3, Pak-2 will cause more casualties among Ukrainian civilians. Pressure against Russia military potential is the second point. We need to choke the sources of Russian military capabilities and increase sanctions. We must stop the Russian military industrial complex. Russia access to critical technologies and components used in its weapons and equipment must be blocked. And the Russian economy is showing clear signs of structural exhaustion.— and this is the right moment for us to tighten all constraints against Moscow in financial, banking, trade, energy spheres, and in particular against the shadow fleet. Third, accountability as a moral obligation and deterrent against future aggression. We call for the continuation of work aimed to restore justice for the victims of Russia, and we welcome the recent decision of the government of Netherlands to host the special tribunal for the crime of aggression against Ukraine in The Hague. We also demand the immediate return of unlawfully deported Ukrainian children, illegally detained civilians, and prisoners of war without any delay back to their homes. We need to bring all those responsible for the war crimes to justice. Strengthening of the UN effectiveness in implementing its functions is the fourth point. The paralysis of the UN Security Council regarding Russia's crimes must be must be stopped by the international community, who still respect rules-based international order. Thus, we once again here appeal to the members of Security Council to place on the table without further delay a draft resolution calling for immediate and unconditional ceasefire. Such a step would be clear signal of supporting restoration of comprehensive, just, and lasting peace for Ukraine. Mr. President, there is the only one path forward for Russia to end this war war of aggression against Ukraine. Now. It requires Moscow to recognize that its war is a historic catastrophe. If they refuse to stop it, the costs and consequences for Russia will continue to rise. The choice is Moscow's. But the responsibility for stopping them is ours. Thank you, Mr. President.

I thank the representative of Ukraine for the statement. I now I give the floor to His Excellency Mr. Stavros Lambrinidis, Head of Delegation of the European Union to the United Nations.

Merci, Monsieur le Président.

I have the honor of delivering this statement on behalf of the European Union and its member states. The candidate countries Montenegro, Albania, Ukraine, the Republic of Moldova, Bosnia-Herzegovina, and Georgia, as well as Liechtenstein, Monaco, and San Marino, align themselves with this statement. I thank the DRC Presidency for convening this meeting and thank as well our exceptional briefers for their factual updates. Day after day, Mr. President, Russia continues its illegal and unprovoked full-scale invasion of Ukraine. It doesn't care about the Ukrainian civilians it kills, or the Ukrainian children it deports, forcibly transfers, and indoctrinates, in blatant violation of international law and basic human dignity. It doesn't care about the 1,000 of its own soldiers a day that die in pursuit of its illegal war of aggression. It certainly doesn't care about the UN Charter that it tramples over or the UN resolutions and ICJ Court rulings that it defies.— and it obviously doesn't care about what its colleagues on this Security Council have to say. Because while all other Council members consistently call for an end to the killing, Russia intensifies its bombings, deflects the blame, and even plays the victim. It is high time that Russia understands that borders cannot be changed by force, and that aggressors cannot be rewarded. Not in Ukraine. Not anywhere. After almost 4.5 years of bloodshed and destruction, Russia has patently not achieved its goals on the battlefield. By every standard it has set for itself, Russia is losing this war. Some reports estimate its losses at 1.5 million. In frustration, it has intensified its missile and drone attacks against Ukrainian cities, energy infrastructure and civilians. It has killed dozens of civilians in the past week alone. In Kyiv, a hotel was damaged housing also diplomatic staff, including 20 colleagues of the European Union delegation. I am happy to report that none of our colleagues was injured. But such violence cannot be excused or tolerated. Attacks directed against civilians, diplomats, civilian infrastructure are unacceptable and in blatant violation of international humanitarian law. Colleagues, the consequences of Russia's aggression are global. This week, This week, as we speak, here at the United Nations, at the High-Level Political Forum, we discuss how to achieve the Sustainable Development Goals and how to mobilize the necessary financing many countries desperately need. But rather than share its portion of global development financing—even the slightest portion—Russia chooses to dedicate almost 40% 40% of its budget on military and security expenditures. It uses this budget not only for its aggression against Ukraine, but to threaten the security of EU citizens and regional stability as well. This is Russia today, dear colleagues. 40% on guns and on wars of aggression and of choice. Nearly 0% for official development assistance. That is Russia today. Colleagues, the EU supports a comprehensive, just and lasting peace in Ukraine based on international law, including the UN Charter. We support all diplomatic efforts to this end. Last year, This Council adopted a resolution which Russia, remember, supported, imploring a swift end to the conflict. Right after, Ukraine committed itself to an immediate and unconditional ceasefire. Ukraine committed itself to an immediate and unconditional ceasefire. More than 15 months ago, was that pledge. But time and again, Ukraine's readiness for talks has been met with Russian drones and missiles. That's a fact. Russia must heed the call from the international community and agree to a full, unconditional and immediate ceasefire. Humanitarian relief efforts and confidence-building measures, notably the exchange of prisoners of war, war, and the return of civilian detainees must continue. Russia must come to the negotiating table and engage sincerely to stop its war of aggression. In the meantime, dear colleagues, the European Union will continue to increase pressure on Russia's war economy. We urge all countries, including the members of this Council, to cease any assistance to Russia, whether direct or indirect, and notably through the provision of dual-use goods and components. And of course we condemn the continued military support provided to Russia by Iran, Belarus and the DPRK. The European Union will continue to support Ukraine as it bravely stands up for its independence, sovereignty and territorial integrity in line with Article 51 of the UN Charter. Border. We call on others to do so as well. Thank you.

I thank Mr. Lambrinidis for the statement. I now give the floor to the representative of Romania.

Thank you very much, Mr. President. Romania aligns with the statement of the European Union just delivered. I want to thank you, Mr. President, for convening this meeting. I also want to thank the briefers for the introductions. As we have heard, Last night, dozens of innocent people were again killed and injured during the latest massive combined missile and drone attacks targeting Kyiv and other regions of Ukraine. And once again, Russia chooses escalation over diplomacy, failing to stand up to the responsibility that would be expected from a permanent member at such juncture. Confronted with Ukraine's legitimate and resilient self-defense, the aggressor continues to escalate against civilians, in yet another failed attempt to turn the tide through fear and destruction. The relentless bombing of Ukrainian cities, the continuous killing and injuring of civilians, including children, the senseless damaging of residential buildings and civilian infrastructure does not convey a perception of strength. It reflects a conduct contrasting with what the UN Charter, this Council, and our organization stand for, and the principles and values the values we promote. This Council said it repeatedly: the deliberate targeting of civilians and civilian infrastructure is unacceptable under international law and must stop immediately. We support Ukraine in ensuring justice through relevant accountability mechanisms for the loss of life and damage suffered. Mr. President, in its latest meetings, this Council almost unanimously placed its political weight behind the call for an immediate ceasefire and ending the war. What is expected now from Russia is simply to rise to the moment and match Ukraine's proven commitment to peace, as we have also just heard today in this meeting from our Ukrainian colleagues. It is important for Russia to stop attacking with missiles and drones innocent civilians in Ukraine, to agree to an immediate, full and unconditional ceasefire, to genuinely and meaningfully engage in negotiations towards a just and lasting peace; to return those Ukrainian children unlawfully deported or forcibly transferred; to change the course towards peace. Ukraine, the United States, European leaders continuously work to ensure the environment and conditions for a meaningful diplomatic process leading to a just and lasting peace. And we will continue to support these efforts. A ceasefire remains the very first step to unlock a path to peace. Ukraine repeatedly expressed its readiness for a ceasefire and a diplomatic end to the war. The international community is ready to support it. President, escalation will not change reality on the ground, nor our resolve in supporting Ukraine in their legitimate self-defense. Romania stands with Ukraine and its people for as long as it is needed. Misleading narratives blaming the West will not succeed in hiding that Russia is not genuinely seeking peace, as well as its refusal to engage in meaningful talks despite committed efforts by Ukraine, United States, and European leaders. Our support to Ukraine is not meant to instrumentalize or prolong the war, but to bring it closer to its end. And we will continue to factually expose the regional and global consequences— of the war, which concern us all. The full responsibility for any such consequences rests with the aggressor. We reiterate our support for comprehensive, just and lasting peace in Ukraine, in line with the UN Charter and international law, and in full observance of the principles of sovereignty, independence, territorial integrity within internationally recognized borders, with robust and workable security guarantees. Hollow attempts to divert attention cannot cover the truth. Time has come for the aggression against Ukraine to stop. Thank you, Mr.

President.

Je remercie. I thank the representative of Romania for the statement. I now give the floor to the representative of Lithuania.

Mr. President, I have the honor to speak on behalf of the Baltic States, and we also align with the statement of the European Union. We thank the Presidency of the Democratic Republic of the Congo for scheduling this Council meeting to address Russia's continued and intensifying deliberate attacks against civilians and civilian infrastructure across Ukraine. We also appreciate statements by the briefers and Council members once again calling on Russia to stop its barbaric campaign of terror and to agree to an unconditional ceasefire. Early on July 6th, Russia launched 68 missiles and 351 long-range drones, killing at least 23 people. 15 people were killed in Kyiv, which was Russia's main target, and 56 were injured. Another 8 people were killed in the wider Kyiv region and 21 were injured. These attacks are not isolated incidents but part— of a sustained campaign of terror against Ukraine's civilian population. Moreover, these attacks are fully consistent with a well-documented pattern of violations recorded in the Secretary-General's reports. For 4 years, the UN Secretary-General has been blacklisting Russia's military for committing grave violations against children, and this year Russia was is also listed for perpetrating conflict-related sexual violence. And these are the armed forces of the UN member state occupying a permanent seat of the Security Council, mandated by the UN Charter to maintain international peace and security. Such conduct is fundamentally incompatible not only with the responsibilities of a permanent member of the Security Council, but also with the obligation of every UN member The Baltic States reiterate the Secretary-General's decision to prohibit all countries repeatedly listed in the annexes of his reports on children in armed conflicts and conflict-related sexual violence from participating in United Nations peacekeeping operations. A military repeatedly listed for grave violations against children and conflict-related sexual violence cannot credibly be entrusted with the protection of civilians under the UN flag. Mr. President, we will continue to call for full accountability of Russia, all those responsible at all levels, for the crime of aggression, as well as for all war crimes and other international law violations. We will also continue to call for a comprehensive, just, and lasting peace in Ukraine. Ukraine. Such peace is needed not only for the innocent victims of Russia's war against Ukraine, but also to uphold international peace and security and prevent further Russian escalation. If Russia's leaders are blind to grief and misery that their aggression brings to Ukraine, it is time they realize consequences for Russia itself. Since the beginning of the reckless decision to invade Ukraine, The Russian military has suffered 1.4 million battlefield casualties, including well over 450,000 deaths. As Russia continues to pay an ever higher price for its aggression in Europe, we are mobilizing resources to increase support to Ukraine and enhance our resilience against Russia's hybrid activities. In NATO Summit Declaration adopted in Ankara on July 2026, Allies pledged €70 billion in military equipment, assistance, and training for Ukraine. The current trajectory of senseless escalation will not help advance Russia's interests or its long-term legacy. It is time to take a decision that would be a step towards changing all that. That decision must be to reject war and seek peace.— first and foremost by agreeing to an immediate, full and unconditional ceasefire. Let me reiterate that the Baltic States will continue providing comprehensive assistance, including military, in our unwavering support for the sovereignty, territorial integrity and political independence of Ukraine. I thank you.

I thank the representative of Lithuania for the statement. I now give the floor to the representative of Poland.

Thank you, Mr. President. I would like to thank the Democratic Republic of the Congo for convening this meeting.

Thank the briefers for their interventions and align ourselves with the EU statement. Mr. President, we strongly condemn the latest large-scale attacks against Ukraine, which demonstrate Russia's profound disregard for the basic principles of international law and indeed of humanity. Russia's cruel attacks reflect the inability of its armed forces to make significant advances on the battlefield. Russia continues its deliberate targeting of residential buildings, resulting in the deaths and injuries of numerous civilians, including children. It conducts attacks against critical infrastructure, aimed at weakening Ukraine's resilience and depriving civilians civilians of access to basic services. Such actions go far beyond legitimate military objectives and impose an unacceptable burden on millions of people. And speaking of people, Mr. President, while Russian civilians end up recently in long lines for the gas stations, Ukrainian civilians end up dead. In the face of the more and more tangible decline decline of Russia's economy, there is perhaps some hope that Russian people will eventually realize that this war and the choices of Kremlin run against their own interest. Poland will continue to reiterate one basic truth: the responsibility for launching and continuing this war lies solely with Russia. There can be no false equivalence between the aggressor aggressor and the victim of aggression. Ukraine is exercising its inherent right to self-defense in accordance with Article 51 of the UN Charter. Russia's aggression must stop. We call for a durable settlement based on full respect for Ukraine's sovereignty, independence, and territorial integrity. We expect Russia to engage in meaningful negotiations resulting in a lasting and just peace. Such peace Peace cannot be achieved through the acceptance of aggression or legitimization of territorial gains achieved by force. It would create a dangerous precedent for further disregard of the Charter. We also underline that those responsible for crimes committed during Russia's aggression must be held accountable. Mr. President, we fully support all measures aimed at compelling the Kremlin to cease hostilities and agree to a ceasefire. The international community should increase economic and diplomatic pressure to have Russia comply with international law. Poland's commitment to supporting Ukraine remains steadfast. It is reflected in our continuous engagement and in the broad spectrum of humanitarian, economic, and military support provided since the outset of Russia's full-scale aggression.

Dzięwojenie. Merci.

I thank the representative of Poland for the statement. I now give the floor to the representative of Finland.

Thank you, Mr. President. I have the honor to address the Council on behalf of the Nordic countries: Denmark, Iceland, Norway, Sweden, and my own country, Finland. Once again, this Council meets as Russia continues to intensify its aerial attacks against Ukraine. Many of us believed certain its needs remained also in war. This does not seem to be the case during the Russian brutal war of aggression against Ukraine. Again, we continue to witness increasingly deadly and destructive strikes clearly directed against residential buildings, civilians, and civilian infrastructure. In the first week of July alone, dozens of civilians were killed and hundreds injured across Ukraine. At least 60 people lost their lives in Kyiv alone. We are also alarmed by the growing number of attacks on humanitarian operations and humanitarian workers protected under international humanitarian law. A week ago, a World Food Programme vehicle transporting WFP staff was once again directly struck by Russian drone. This marks a third major attack in 2 months directly affecting the WFP. Just a week ago, a Red Cross warehouse serving as one of the key humanitarian logistic hubs was completely destroyed in a massive Russian attack on Kyiv. The Kyiv Pechersk Lavra, one of Ukraine's and the world's most treasured and cultural sites, religious and cultural sites,— and a place of profound spiritual significance for the Orthodox faith, has not been spared from Russian aerial attacks either. We reiterate our demand that Russia fully comply with its obligations under international humanitarian law. Civilians and civilian objects must be protected at all times. Humanitarian personnel and relief objects must be respected and protected. President, alarmingly, Russian attacks have been accompanied by threats also in this chamber. Russian officials have openly threatened civilians, diplomats, and the staff of international organizations operating in Ukraine. The Nordic countries strongly condemn these actions. Russia does not determine diplomatic presence or the work of international organizations in Ukraine. President Ukraine has repeatedly called for an immediate ceasefire and direct talks between the leaders of Ukraine and Russia. The Nordic countries urge Russia to answer this call. A ceasefire must be the first step towards a just, lasting, and sustainable peace grounded in international law, including the United Nations Charter. The Nordic countries remain steadfast in support for Ukraine and its brave people. Ukraine has the right to defend itself in accordance with Article 51 of the UN Charter and to determine its own future. I thank you.

I thank the representative of Finland for the statement. There are no more names inscribed on the list of speakers. The meeting is adjourned.