The United Nations warned Thursday that the war in Ukraine risks spiraling 'out of control' after a wave of large-scale Russian strikes. Secretary-General António Guterres told the Security Council the intensifying conflict threatens 'unknown and unintended consequences' and called for an immediate ceasefire.
Russia launched approximately 90 long-range missiles and 600 drones in overnight attacks this week, killing at least five and injuring more than 100 across Ukraine, with Kyiv hit hardest. Diplomatic compounds housing UN agencies were damaged by debris, though no UN staff were hurt.
According to the UN human rights office, civilian casualties in Ukraine are rising: 815 killed and 4,174 injured between January and April 2026. Since the full-scale invasion began in February 2022, over 15,000 civilians-including nearly 800 children-have been killed.
Guterres reiterated that attacks on civilians and infrastructure violate international humanitarian law. 'The choice is clear. The responsibility is clear. The time for peace is now,' he said.