UN chief issues bleak forecast for resolution of Russia-Ukraine war
Photo: António Guterres, UN secretary-general (Getty Images)
A resolution to Russia’s war against Ukraine is unlikely to happen in the short term, said UN Secretary-General António Guterres at a press conference.
"I am not optimistic about the short-term progress in the peace process in Ukraine. Our position is very clear - we need an immediate ceasefire, but a ceasefire that leads to a solution based on the UN Charter, international law, and the resolution of the General Assembly," Guterres said.
He reminded that Russia is firmly resisting the idea of a ceasefire and insists on the need for a global agreement, which is extremely difficult to achieve.
"I am afraid that we might witness this war going on, at least for some time," the UN Secretary-General stated.
He added that the violence is particularly dramatic now because it has a massive impact on civilians, which is truly tragic.
He explained that he is not optimistic about this matter, as the positions of Ukraine and Russia differ sharply. Ukraine seeks to preserve its territorial integrity, while Russia aims to occupy large parts of Ukrainian territory.
Ending Russia’s war against Ukraine
Previously, US Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent suggested that Russia’s war against Ukraine could end within 2–3 months.
According to him, this scenario is possible if European countries impose significant tariffs on states that purchase Russian oil.
Meanwhile, EU High Representative Kaja Kallas stated that Russia’s war against Ukraine could continue for at least another two years.
