Nigeria and other 140 United Nations member states have called on the Russian Federation to immediately and unconditionally withdraw its troops from Ukraine, The PUNCH reports.
The resolution urged a ‘comprehensive, just and lasting peace’ that it said ‘would constitute a significant contribution to strengthening international peace and security’ and reaffirmed Ukraine’s independence and territorial integrity.
The demand coincides with the one-year anniversary of the war that has claimed the lives of thousands and displaced millions.
Ukraine got strong backing in a non-binding vote that saw 141 of the 193 United Nations members in support.
Seven members opposed and 32, including China and India, abstained at the UN General Assembly emergency special session.
European Union foreign policy chief, Josep Borrell said UNGA spoke ‘very clear’ as the vote shows that the international community stands with Ukraine.
The resolution insists on Ukraine’s ‘sovereignty’ and ‘territorial integrity,’ rejecting Russia’s claims to the parts of the country.
General Assembly President Csaba Kőrösi said nations and organisations have been consistent and vocal in calls to end the war and to respect the UN Charter.
“Too many lives, livelihoods, families and communities have been lost. Russia must end this hell of bloodshed,’’ he stressed.
UN Secretary-General António Guterres noted that the one-year mark stands as a ‘grim milestone’ and urged support for a $5.6 billion humanitarian appeal for the people of Ukraine.
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