Russia’s air assault on Ukraine draws criticism at UN Security Council meeting
“Once again, Ukrainians are forced to spend the holidays seeking shelter, clearing the rubble, and burying the dead, amidst freezing temperatures,” he added.
Russia launches Ukraine war’s biggest aerial barrage, killing 30 civilians
Most council members, including the United States, France and Britain, condemned the attacks on Ukraine.
“Rather than peace, (Russian President Vladimir) Putin chose to mark this holiday season and usher in the New Year with an unprecedented number of drone and missile strikes against another UN member state,” said US Minister-Counselor John Kelley.
China’s Deputy Permanent Representative to the UN, Geng Shuang, did not condemn the attacks but called for a “political solution” to the war in Ukraine.
Russia’s UN ambassador Vasily Nebenzya said in a lengthy response that Russia had launched attacks only on military infrastructure in Ukraine and that Ukraine’s air defence systems were responsible for civilian casualties.
Britain’s ambassador to the UN Barbara Woodward responded that Russia’s actions were the sole cause of the tragedy in Ukraine.
“The rest is a torrent of lies and disinformation,” Woodward said of Nebenzya’s remarks.
UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres condemned the attacks by Russia on Ukraine, spokesperson Stephane Dujarric said in a statement.
“Attacks against civilians and civilian infrastructure violate international humanitarian law, are unacceptable and must end immediately,” Dujarric said.