Zelensky Expresses Discontent Over UN Chief's Interaction With Putin At BRICS
Ukraine's Displeasure Over UN Chief's Presence at BRICS Summit
Ukraine has expressed its displeasure over the presence of United Nations Secretary-General Antonio Guterres at the BRICS summit in Kazan, Russia. Guterres was seen in friendly interactions with leaders such as Presidents Vladimir Putin and Alexander Lukashenko. Photographs captured Guterres shaking hands with Putin during the 'family photo' ceremony and even hugging Belarusian leader Lukashenko.
Zelensky's Reaction to Guterres' Actions
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has criticized the UN chief for his friendly interactions with Ukraine's 'adversaries'. An official close to Zelensky stated that Guterres "shook hands with him [Putin]. He smiled. He was asked to come to promote the BRICS summit even more. He was used by them, and he seemed happy to be used."
Ukraine's Response to Guterres' Actions
In response to Guterres' actions, Ukraine has informed him that he will no longer be welcomed in Kiev on visits. Zelensky, in a Thursday night address, stated, "Even if some officials prefer the allure of Kazan over the substance of the U.N. Charter, our world is structured so that the rights of nations and international legal norms matter, and will continue to matter."
Ukrainian Foreign Ministry's Statement
The Ukrainian Foreign Ministry also issued a statement criticizing the UN chief: "The UN Secretary General declined Ukraine’s invitation to the first global peace summit in Switzerland. He did, however, accept the invitation to Kazan from war criminal Putin," a message posted stated. The statement further added, "This is a wrong choice that does not advance the cause of peace. It only damages the UN’s reputation."
Supporters of Ukraine Criticize Guterres
Supporters of Ukraine, including Lithuanian Foreign Minister Gabrielius Landsbergis, have also criticized Guterres. Landsbergis hinted that Guterres should consider stepping down from his post, stating, "Guterres must admit that he was wrong and take responsibility, both when he decided not to go to the Ukraine peace summit in Switzerland and now, when he went to see the wanted war criminal Putin and grovelled with both him and his accomplice Lukashenko."
Controversy Amidst Diplomatic Discussions on Ukraine War
This controversy arises amidst increasing discussions among diplomats about the need to find a negotiated settlement to the Ukraine war. There are concerns in Kiev that such a settlement could result in Ukraine permanently losing a significant part of its eastern territory, which Russian forces have captured.
UN and Guterres' Office's Response
The UN and Guterres' office have defended his visit to the BRICS meeting and interactions with Putin as an "operational necessity" and part of diplomacy and peace-keeping.
Bottom Line
The recent controversy surrounding UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres' interactions with Presidents Vladimir Putin and Alexander Lukashenko at the BRICS summit has sparked a debate about the role of diplomacy and peace-keeping in international relations. What do you think about this situation? Do you believe Guterres' actions were justified as part of his diplomatic duties, or do you agree with Ukraine's criticism? Share your thoughts and discuss this issue with your friends. Remember, you can sign up for the Daily Briefing, which is delivered every day at 6 pm.
