ALBAWABA- The UN General Assembly on Monday adopted a resolution titled “Support for Lasting Peace in Ukraine,” marking four years since Russia launched its full-scale invasion of the country.
The draft, introduced by Ukraine and co-sponsored by more than 50 countries, was approved with 107 votes in favor, 12 against, and 51 abstentions. Countries voting against included Russia, Belarus, North Korea, and Iran.
The resolution calls for an immediate, full and unconditional ceasefire and stresses the need for a comprehensive, just and lasting peace in line with the UN Charter and international law.
It reaffirms support for Ukraine’s sovereignty, independence and territorial integrity, while expressing grave concern over civilian casualties, attacks on infrastructure and the deepening humanitarian crisis. Member states are urged to scale up assistance and protection for civilians, particularly vulnerable groups.
UN Secretary-General António Guterres said the anniversary of the invasion marked “a violation of the UN Charter and international law” and described the war as a stain on the global conscience. In a message posted on X, he renewed his call for an immediate ceasefire as a first step toward a just peace that respects Ukraine’s territorial integrity, noting that 2025 had been the deadliest year for civilians since the conflict began.
The United States abstained from the vote. Washington said it supports efforts toward a ceasefire but argued that certain language in the resolution could complicate ongoing diplomatic initiatives under President Donald Trump, whose administration has prioritized direct negotiations between Kyiv and Moscow. U.S. Deputy Envoy Tammy Bruce said achieving a durable settlement would require “political will” from all sides.
The latest resolution follows earlier General Assembly measures in 2022 and 2023 condemning Russia’s aggression, as well as a 2025 resolution addressing reparations. The vote comes amid intensified fighting and mounting civilian casualties, with infrastructure damage and displacement continuing to strain Ukraine and test international support.
European leaders, including members of the G7, reiterated backing for Ukraine’s internationally recognized borders, though divisions remain over the scale and duration of assistance. Russia dismissed the resolution as one-sided.
The war, which began on February 24, 2022, has displaced millions, disrupted global markets, and left prospects for a negotiated settlement uncertain despite growing diplomatic pressure for dialogue.
