UN Chief Criticizes Security Council for Failing to Lead on Global Conflicts

The UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres criticized the Security Council for its inability to end conflicts in Gaza, Ukraine, and Sudan. He urged for united action under the UN Charter. The divisions, particularly influenced by veto-wielding members like the US and Russia, hinder effective resolutions and peace-building efforts.

The UN Secretary-General, Antonio Guterres, sharply criticized the Security Council for its failure to end ongoing conflicts in Gaza, Ukraine, and Sudan. During a high-level meeting, Guterres highlighted the council's deep geopolitical divisions and violations of the UN Charter as barriers to peace.

Guterres stressed that peace requires action and leadership, pointing out that the council has managed successful peacekeeping operations and humanitarian aid in the past. However, he emphasized that a divided council cannot achieve peace, urging members to find common ground.

Notably, the meeting highlighted the influence of veto-wielding members like the US and Russia in stymieing council actions. As the council adopted a non-binding presidential statement reaffirming the UN Charter, leaders like British PM Keir Starmer and US Ambassador Linda Thomas-Greenfield called for accountability and a renewed commitment to international law.

(With inputs from agencies.)