United Nations welcomes Russia-Ukraine ceasefire and calls for lasting peace

Saturday 09 May 2026 - 18:42

The United Nations has welcomed the recently announced three-day ceasefire between Russia and Ukraine, while urging both sides to work toward a comprehensive and lasting peace agreement.

In a statement released through his spokesperson, Antonio Guterres praised the temporary truce and expressed support for ongoing diplomatic efforts aimed at reducing tensions and limiting further humanitarian suffering.

The UN chief also welcomed the large-scale prisoner exchange planned between the two countries, which is expected to involve the release of 1,000 prisoners from each side. Observers view the exchange as one of the most significant humanitarian gestures since the beginning of the conflict.

According to the announcement, the ceasefire includes the suspension of military operations for three days. The agreement was reportedly facilitated through diplomatic efforts supported by the United States and announced by Donald Trump.

Guterres reiterated the United Nations’ long-standing call for an “immediate, full, unconditional and durable ceasefire” as an essential first step toward achieving a just and sustainable peace settlement between Moscow and Kyiv.

International analysts say the ceasefire could provide an opportunity to reopen diplomatic dialogue after months of intense fighting and geopolitical tensions. However, many experts also warn that temporary truces alone may not be sufficient to resolve the deeper political and territorial disputes at the center of the war.

Since the outbreak of the conflict, the humanitarian impact has been severe, with millions displaced and infrastructure heavily damaged across several regions of Ukraine. International organizations continue to stress the urgent need for political negotiations and humanitarian cooperation.

The United Nations reaffirmed its readiness to support all initiatives aimed at achieving stability, protecting civilians, and promoting a peaceful resolution to the conflict.