UN Security Council holds emergency session after Ukrainian attack on Russian city

According to Russia's Ministry of Emergency Situations, a Ukrainian assault on the city of Belgorod resulted in 18 fatalities and 111 injuries.

During the emergency meeting on the same day, Russian Ambassador to the UN Vassily Nebenzia characterized Ukraine's actions as "a terrorist attack" on civilian targets.

A Ukrainian representative condemned Russia for missile and drone attacks on various parts of Ukraine on Friday but did not address the reported strike on western Russia.

Western nations urged the immediate withdrawal of Russian forces from Ukraine, attributing the crisis to Russia's military invasion.

French envoy Nicolas de Riviere asserted that Ukraine is acting in self-defense under the UN Charter, while accusing Moscow of violating it. He called for an end to the invasion by Russia.

Council members from Africa and South America urged both Russia and Ukraine to engage in talks and negotiations to de-escalate the situation, emphasizing the need for peace to minimize civilian casualties. (ILKHA)