Condemning Downing of Ukraine Military Airplane, Secretary-General

Stresses Need for Immediate End to Hostilities

 

The following statement was issued today by the Spokesman for UN Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon:

The Secretary-General condemns in the strongest terms the downing of a Ukrainian military airplane today in Lugansk, killing 49 people.

The Secretary-General believes the continuing violence in eastern Ukraine — characterized by a growing loss of life and a deteriorating humanitarian situation — highlights the need for an immediate cessation of hostilities and a resolution of the crisis through negotiation and dialogue.  He is concerned that recent diplomatic efforts in that direction have not borne fruit and appeals to all sides to implement urgently the 17 April Geneva Agreement, which offered a clear path to a peaceful solution.

The Secretary-General reiterates his support for newly elected President [Petro] Poroshenko and the people of Ukraine and stands in solidarity with them during this difficult time.  He once again emphasizes that everyone must do their part to bring Ukraine back from the brink and ensure its unity, sovereignty and territorial integrity.

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For information media • not an official record