UNITED STATES: UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres has started a humanitarian ceasefire initiative in the conflict-torn Ukraine. "Today, I'm announcing that, in the exercise of my good offices, I've requested Martin Griffiths, our global humanitarian coordinator, to immediately examine with the parties involved potential agreements and procedures for a humanitarian cease-fire in Ukraine," he told reporters here on Monday.

According to reports, the protracted confrontation between Ukraine and Russia has resulted in the pointless loss of thousands of lives, the displacement of ten million people, the systematic destruction of key infrastructure, and increasing food and energy costs around the world. "This has to end," the UN head stated, adding that a political solution is required.

"This humanitarian catastrophe does not have a humanitarian solution. It's a political issue. As a result, I'm pleading for an immediate humanitarian cease-fire to allow meaningful political talks to advance toward a peace deal based on the United Nations Charter's values." A pause of hostilities will allow for the delivery of critical humanitarian aid and the safe movement of civilians. He claims that it will save lives, alleviate suffering, and safeguard civilians.

In the last month, UN humanitarian agencies and partners have provided food, housing, blankets, medicine, bottled water, and hygiene supplies to approximately 900,000 people, mostly in eastern Ukraine, he said.

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