More than 50 UN member states called on russia to agree to a full, immediate, and unconditional ceasefire and begin constructive peace negotiations. This is stated in a joint statement made public ahead of a UN Security Council meeting by EU High Representative for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy Kaja Kallas and Ukrainian Foreign Minister Andrii Sybiha, Ukrinform reports.
The document emphasizes solidarity with Ukraine and the need to uphold the principles of the UN Charter, in particular respect for the sovereignty, independence, and territorial integrity of states, as well as the inherent right to self-defense.
The statement expresses "deep concern" over the escalation of russian attacks against Ukraine's civilian population and infrastructure, which, according to the UN, have resulted in a record number of casualties in recent months.
"We call for full compliance with international humanitarian law, accountability, and the protection of civilians", - the document emphasizes.
The countries expressed concern over russia's attacks in the Black Sea, noting that Moscow is trying to obstruct Ukrainian grain exports, posing a threat to global food security. They support efforts to reach agreements in the Black Sea to ensure freedom of navigation.
The authors of the statement also recalled that since March 2025, Ukraine has agreed to a full, immediate, and unconditional ceasefire.
"We call on russia to finally take this step as a necessary measure for constructive diplomacy and negotiations leading to peace", - the statement says.
The countries also called on russia to immediately, safely, and unconditionally return to Ukraine all civilians who have been illegally detained, forcibly transferred, or deported, particularly children, as well as fully return all prisoners of war and internees.
The document was signed by most European countries, Australia, Canada, Costa Rica, Honduras, Israel, Japan, New Zealand, Panama, and South Korea.