United Nations: escalating toll as third year of war in Ukraine looms

The UN's Political and Peacebuilding Affairs chief Rosemary DiCarlo, briefed the Security Council, stating that as the war in Ukraine approaches its third year, the damage to the country and global peace is increasingly evident. DiCarlo emphasized that the conflict remains unresolved and is causing significant harm to Ukraine, international law, and global security. She stressed the need for a solution aligned with the UN Charter and international law to achieve lasting peace. DiCarlo also highlighted humanitarian efforts, including a $4.2 billion appeal to aid affected communities and refugees in Ukraine.

Since Russia's invasion in February 2022, the UN human rights office has confirmed over 30,000 civilian casualties, with a notable increase in December 2023 and January 2024. DiCarlo condemned attacks on civilians and infrastructure as violations of international law. Meanwhile, Rafael Grossi, head of the UN International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA), is set to visit Ukraine's Zaporizhzhia Nuclear Power Plant. Concerns arise over the plant's safety, with all reactors shut down for nearly 18 months. Grossi stressed the global implications of the plant's fate, emphasizing the need for a comprehensive understanding of the situation for international peace and security.