UN Secretary-General António Guterres told Russian President Vladimir Putin on Thursday that Russia’s invasion of Ukraine violates the UN Charter and international law, a UN statement confirmed. The meeting, held at the BRICS summit in Kazan, Russia, marked the first time the two leaders have met since April 2022.
Guterres reiterated his position on the invasion during the meeting, emphasizing the illegality of Russia’s actions. “We need peace in Ukraine. A just peace in line with the UN Charter, international law, and [UN] General Assembly resolutions,” Guterres stated during a speech to the summit delegates delivered in front of Putin, according to the UN statement.
The UN chief’s visit to Russia, and his willingness to meet with Putin while Russian forces continue attacks on Ukrainian cities, drew criticism from Kyiv. The Ukrainian Foreign Ministry stated on X that Guterres declined an invitation to the Global Peace Summit in Switzerland but accepted Putin’s invitation to Kazan, calling it “a wrong choice that does not advance the cause of peace. It only damages the UN’s reputation.”
The meeting took place as Russia’s military campaign in Ukraine continues, with battles looming for full control of the Donbass region. Russia’s initial justifications for the invasion, including claims of “genocide” against Russian speakers in Ukraine, have been widely discredited. According to the Council on Foreign Relations, Russia’s actions violate Article 2(4) of the UN Charter, which prohibits the use of force against the territorial integrity or political independence of any state.
The UN Charter does not support Russia’s claim of self-defense under Article 51, as Ukraine did not initiate an armed attack against Russia. The regions of Donetsk and Luhansk, whose purported secession from Ukraine Russia used to justify intervention, do not qualify as states under international law.
Guterres also expressed his support for establishing an agreement for safe navigation in the Black Sea, recognizing its importance for global food security. He “fully supports the continuation of negotiations in this regard and expresses his deep appreciation for the work being done by Türkiye,” according to a readout of the meeting issued by his spokesperson.
The European Parliament is scheduled to declare its support for Ukraine four years after Russia’s initial invasion, signaling continued European commitment to the country. The UN Secretary-General’s meeting with Putin occurred despite ongoing calls for UN member states to uphold the UN Charter and #StandWithUkraine, as promoted by the Ukrainian World Congress.
