President,

I thank Assistant Secretary-General, Ms. Martha Ama Akyaa Pobee, for the briefing.

China takes note of the reports regarding a drone attack against a bus in the Bryansk region of the Russian Federation and expresses deep concern over the civilian casualties resulting from the incident. Under no circumstances should civilians be targeted in attacks; their safety must be protected.

In previous briefings, we have learned that both Russia and Ukraine have recently endured immense suffering, with the monthly number of civilian casualties reaching a peak since the outbreak of the conflict. This development is deeply sad. Even more unfortunate is that the conflict has triggered severe spillover effects, frequently endangering the safety of people in other regional countries. If the conflict continues indefinitely, it will only bring more suffering, cause more destruction, plunge more innocent people into this senseless tragedy, and make the situation even more unpredictable.

Conflict knows no winner, and war cannot solve problems. China once again calls on the parties concerned to remain calm and exercise restraint, strictly abide by international humanitarian law, refrain from attacking civilians or civilian infrastructure, and work for de-escalation to cease hostilities at an early date. We call on all parties to step up efforts to resume negotiations, demonstrate political will toward each other, and dedicate themselves to eliminating all root causes of the conflict based on full and complete compliance with the principles of the UN Charter, with a view to reaching a comprehensive, lasting, and binding peace agreement.

China maintains an objective and impartial position on the Ukraine issue. Guided by the four shoulds proposed by President Xi Jinping, we remain engaged with all parties, including Russia and Ukraine, and tirelessly promote peace talks. Alongside the international community, China is ready to continue playing a constructive role in promoting a political settlement to the crisis.

I thank you, President.