THE SECRETARY-GENERAL’S PRESS ENCOUNTER ON THE SITUATION IN UKRAINE

The United Nations has no access to independent information on the circumstances that led to the destruction of the Kakhovka hydroelectric dam plant. But one thing is clear: This is another devastating consequence of the Russian invasion of Ukraine.

We are seeing the effects in the city of Kherson, the town of Nova Kakhovka and 80 other towns and villages along the Dnipro River.

Massive flooding.  Large-scale evacuations.  Environmental devastation.  Destruction of newly planted crops.

And added threats to the highly threatened Zaporizhzhia nuclear power plant -- Europe’s largest nuclear facility.

At least 16,000 people have already lost their homes -- with safe and clean drinking water supplies at risk for many thousands more. 

The United Nations and humanitarian partners are rushing support in coordination with the Government of Ukraine – including drinking water and water purification tablets and other critical assistance.

We will continue our humanitarian work – and our appeals for urgent safe and secure humanitarian access.

Today’s tragedy is yet another example of the horrific price of war on people.

The floodgates of suffering have been overflowing for more than a year.

That must stop.

Attacks against civilians and critical civilian infrastructure must stop.

We must act to ensure accountability and respect for international humanitarian law.

Above all, I appeal for a just peace in line with the UN Charter, international law and the resolutions of the General Assembly.

Thank you.