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Ceasefire in Ukraine: A Crucial Step Toward Lasting Peace
United Nations senior officials addressed the Security Council amid worsening conditions in Ukraine, highlighting both the growing humanitarian crisis and renewed efforts to achieve peace as the war approaches its third year.
Speaking to ambassadors, UN Under-Secretary-General for Political and Peacebuilding Affairs Rosemary DiCarlo, alongside Deputy Emergency Relief Coordinator Joyce Msuya, warned of increasing civilian suffering and emphasized that recent diplomatic initiatives may represent a pivotal moment.
Hope for Ceasefire Amid Ongoing Violence
Ms. DiCarlo described recent diplomatic efforts as offering a “glimmer of hope” for a ceasefire and long-term resolution, even as devastating attacks continue across Ukraine. She highlighted recent Russian missile and drone strikes on multiple civilian areas, including Kyiv, where at least 12 people were killed and over 70 injured—the deadliest assault on the capital in nine months.
Other recent attacks included airstrikes in Sumy during Palm Sunday, reportedly killing 35, and in Kryvyi Rih, where 18 people, including nine children, lost their lives. The attack in Kryvyi Rih represents the worst single loss of young lives since Russia’s full-scale invasion began.
According to the UN Human Rights Office (OHCHR), 151 civilians were killed, and 697 injured in Ukraine as of April 24, with numbers expected to exceed March figures, which were already 50% higher than February’s.
DiCarlo also noted reports of civilian casualties within Russia’s borders in the Kursk, Bryansk, and Belgorod regions, including alleged Ukrainian strikes that killed three people.
“We condemn all attacks on civilians and civilian infrastructure, wherever they occur,” she said firmly.
Diplomatic Developments Encouraging
The Under-Secretary-General reaffirmed Secretary-General António Guterres’ consistent calls for de-escalation and a sustainable ceasefire. She welcomed Russia’s recent proposal for a 72-hour ceasefire from May 8–10, following a similar 30-hour Easter truce announced on April 19.
Ukrainian officials have reportedly expressed willingness to reciprocate such measures and reiterated previous support for a broader 30-day ceasefire proposed by the United States. However, Ms. DiCarlo regretted that fighting persisted during Holy Week, with both sides accusing each other of violations.
She also recalled that the Secretary-General had welcomed prior commitments from the U.S., Ukraine, and Russia to refrain from targeting energy infrastructure and to resume talks on Black Sea navigation safety. Nonetheless, such civilian sites continue to be attacked.
Progress Possible with Political Will
Ms. DiCarlo highlighted the successful exchange of 500 prisoners of war on April 20—the largest to date between the two sides—as proof that diplomacy can yield meaningful outcomes when guided by political determination.
She concluded by referencing the approaching 80th anniversary of the end of World War II, underscoring the importance of upholding the UN Charter and international law.
“The Russian Federation’s full-scale invasion of Ukraine is a grave violation of these core principles, destabilizing Europe and endangering the broader international order,” she stated.
“What is urgently needed is a full, immediate, and unconditional ceasefire—an essential starting point for ending the conflict and building a comprehensive, just, and lasting peace.”
Humanitarian Crisis Worsens
Deputy Emergency Relief Coordinator Joyce Msuya reported that humanitarian conditions in Ukraine are deteriorating sharply, despite the occasional windows for ceasefire. Nearly 13 million people across the country now require aid.
“Not a single day has passed this year without civilians being killed or injured,” Ms. Msuya told the Council.
She stressed that delivering humanitarian assistance has become increasingly dangerous. Between January 1 and April 23, there were 38 verified security incidents affecting humanitarian workers near the frontlines. These incidents resulted in three deaths and 21 injuries among aid staff.
Call to Action
Ms. Msuya urged the Security Council to act decisively in three key areas:
– Ensure the protection of civilians, including humanitarian and medical personnel, as well as critical infrastructure.
– Increase international funding for humanitarian efforts, as existing operations are being forced to downscale due to financial shortfalls.
– Promote a just and lasting peace, ensuring that both temporary pauses and long-term agreements prioritize civilian needs and safety.
“Every action in pursuit of peace must put civilians first,” she concluded.
As the suffering continues and diplomatic channels open, the coming weeks may prove decisive in determining whether peace in Ukraine moves from aspiration to reality.
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