UNGA calls on Russia, Ukraine to settle disputes through dialogue

United Nations: President of the 76th session of the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) Abdulla Shahid on Thursday called for an immediate ceasefire in Ukraine and peaceful means to settle disputes.

The UNGA president said in a statement, "I call for an immediate ceasefire, de-escalation of tensions and a firm return to diplomacy and dialogue".

Underscoring that the UN Charter is based on the principle of sovereign equality, Shahid called on all member states to settle their international disputes by peaceful means.

"I renew my call to all member states to uphold their obligations under international law and international humanitarian law," said the UNGA president.

"The safe and unhindered access for humanitarian assistance to Ukraine and its people is a priority and the need of the hour," he said.

Earlier, Russian President Vladimir Putin authorised "a special military action" in Donbas on, and Ukraine confirmed that military stations across the country were targeted.  As per the Russian Defense Ministry, Ukrainian airfields, command centres, naval bases, and radar stations were among the sites targeted.