2025-04-08T05:41:18.000Z

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In a significant escalation of the ongoing conflict between Ukraine and Russia, Ukrainian Foreign Minister Andrii Sybiha announced on Monday that Ukraine has initiated an emergency meeting of the United Nations Security Council. This urgent move comes in response to a devastating Russian missile strike that took place on Friday in the southeastern city of Kryvyi Rih, resulting in the tragic deaths of 20 individuals, including nine children.

The missile attack has been described as one of the most catastrophic incidents affecting Ukrainian children since the onset of the Russian invasion in 2022. This grim milestone highlights the ongoing humanitarian crisis, where innocents, especially children, have borne the brunt of military aggression. Sybiha underscored the enormity of this loss, stating, “This is the largest number of Ukrainian children killed in a single attack since the war began.”

In his statements made on social media platform X, Sybiha called for an immediate cessation of hostilities, urging Russia to halt its terror against Ukrainian civilians and children. He reiterated Ukraine's acceptance of a full ceasefire proposal made by the United States and emphasized the need for Russia to end the war. “Russia must cease its terror against Ukrainian children and civilians, respond to the US full ceasefire proposal, which Ukraine has accepted, and end the war,” he wrote.

In addition to the UN Security Council meeting, Sybiha mentioned that Ukraine has also called for a special session of the permanent council of the Organization for Security and Cooperation in Europe (OSCE), both of which are scheduled to occur on Tuesday. He stressed the importance of a robust international response to what he referred to as “Russian atrocities,” arguing that such acts of terror must never be normalized. “We call for both strong condemnation and firm action,” he added, signaling a determination to rally international support.

Furthermore, Sybiha revealed that he had engaged in discussions with German Foreign Minister Annalena Baerbock regarding the attack in Kryvyi Rih. In their conversation, they explored the necessity for a strong international response reflective of the severity of the situation, particularly the tragic loss of nine children due to a cluster warhead. He expressed gratitude for Germany’s support, stating, “I thank Germany and personally Annalena for all the support.”

In contrast, Moscow has confirmed the strike but characterized it as a “high-precision strike,” claiming that it targeted Ukrainian military commanders and their Western advisors. However, the Ukrainian General Staff in Kyiv dismissed this assertion, labeling it a falsehood. Visual evidence shared by Ukrainian authorities following the attack did not reveal any indication of military targets in the vicinity.

As the conflict continues to unfold, Ukraine remains steadfast in its defense against a large-scale Russian invasion that began in February 2022. The international community watches closely, with many expressing solidarity with Ukraine in its time of need.