UN chief urges peace in Ukraine, calls for ceasefire in Gaza, Lebanon at BRICS summit

United Nations Secretary-General Antonio Guterres has called for a "just peace" in Ukraine, addressing Russian President Vladimir Putin directly during a BRICS summit held in Kazan, Russia, on Thursday. 

He stressed the need to end more than two years of fighting, urging adherence to the UN Charter, international law, and General Assembly resolutions.

Guterres also highlighted the escalating violence in Gaza and Lebanon, calling for an "immediate ceasefire," the release of hostages, and an end to hostilities in both regions. 

His speech marks his first visit to Russia since April 2022, with scheduled talks with Putin focused on the Ukraine conflict later in the day.

While Guterres has been critical of Russia’s military actions and its annexation of Ukrainian territory, fighting continues as the conflict enters its third year. He reiterated the importance of respecting sovereignty, territorial integrity, and political independence.

In response, Putin defended Russia's position, claiming that the country cannot be defeated in Ukraine and warning against what he called "illusionary" Western hopes for a strategic defeat of Russia.

Guterres's spokesperson confirmed that the UN chief remains ready to mediate when both sides are prepared for negotiations. 

Despite Moscow's continued offensive and territorial demands as a condition for peace, Guterres has maintained efforts to facilitate dialogue, including brokering a grain export deal between Ukraine and Russia.

The summit comes amid reports from the US that North Korean soldiers are being trained in Russia, a claim Moscow has not addressed directly. As the conflict drags on, Russia’s parliament approved a budget increasing defence spending by almost 30%, reflecting the ongoing military focus.