UNITED NATIONS: UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres has voiced grave concern over Russia's decision regarding the status of Ukraine's Donetsk and Lugansk.

It was reported, UN Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon is "very worried" by the Russian Federation's decision on the status of certain sections of Ukraine's Donetsk and Lugansk regions. Dujarric, in a statement attributed to him, urged for a "peaceful settlement" of the situation in eastern Ukraine in accordance with the Minsk Agreements, which were adopted by the Security Council in resolution 2202. (2015).

"The secretary-general considers the Russian Federation's action to be a breach of Ukraine's territorial integrity and sovereignty, as well as incompatible with the principles of the United Nations Charter," the statement stated.

According to the statement, the UN remains "completely supportive of" Ukraine's sovereignty, independence, and territorial integrity within internationally recognised borders, in accordance with relevant General Assembly resolutions.

"The secretary-general urges all relevant actors to concentrate their efforts on ensuring an immediate cessation of hostilities, the protection of civilians and civilian infrastructure, the avoidance of any actions or statements that may further exacerbate the dangerous situation in and around Ukraine, and the prioritisation of diplomacy to resolve all issues peacefully," it said.

Putin declares two states of Ukraine 'independent,' Russia to help separatists by sending troops

Russia signs decrees recognising two 'independent republics' in Ukraine

Thailand extends Covid-19 alert level amid growing new infections