Guterres Condemns Attacks on Ukrainian Civilian Infrastructure, Warns of Humanitarian Fallout

On January 9, 2026, United Nations Secretary-General António Guterres issued a strong condemnation through his spokesperson against continued Russian missile and drone strikes targeting critical civilian infrastructure across Ukraine. He stated that these attacks have resulted in significant civilian casualties and, at a time of dire humanitarian needs, have deprived millions of Ukrainians of essential services such as electricity, heating, and water.

The Secretary-General emphasized that assaults on civilian infrastructure are unacceptable and reiterated the urgent call for all parties to adhere strictly to international humanitarian law, which mandates the protection of civilians and civilian objects. This declaration represents a critical diplomatic intervention by the UN as the conflict escalates into the new year, highlighting the direct impact on the civilian population and underscoring the organization's central role in crisis diplomacy and humanitarian coordination.