Source: United Nations (video statements)
Noon briefing by Stéphane Dujarric, Spokesperson for the Secretary-General.
Highlights:
– Afghanistan
– Ukraine
– Occupied Palestinian Territory
– Lebanon/Israel
– Democratic Republic of the Congo
– MONUSCO
AFGHANISTAN
Two national staff members of the UN Assistance Mission in Afghanistan, who were detained by the de facto authorities in the western city of Herat more than a week ago, were released this morning. The colleagues appear to be in good health, and we understand that the charges against them have been dropped.
The UN Mission has not been formally notified of the reasons for their arrest and detention and continues to follow up with the de facto authorities.
This includes seeking to ensure respect for the privileges and immunities of the United Nations, as well as the safety, security, and freedom of movement of the UN and associated personnel throughout the country, in support of the implementation of the Mission’s Security Council-mandated functions to assist the people of Afghanistan.
UKRAINE
The Secretary-General strongly condemns today’s large-scale missile and drone attacks by the armed forces of the Russian Federation on Kyiv and other cities in Ukraine, that reportedly killed and injured dozens of civilians, and caused extensive damage to civilian and residential infrastructure. This is yet another tragic example of the alarming pattern of escalating strikes against populated areas. The Secretary-General remains deeply concerned by the continued escalation, including onto the territory of the Russian Federation.
Attacks against civilians and civilian infrastructure are a clear violation of international humanitarian law, wherever they occur, and must stop immediately.
The Secretary-General reiterates his call for urgent de-escalation, leading to a full, immediate and unconditional ceasefire and for a just, sustainable and comprehensive peace, in line with international law, including the UN Charter and relevant UN resolutions.
And in Ukraine, Tom Fletcher, the Under-Secretary-General for Humanitarian Affairs and Emergency Relief Coordinator, who was in Kyiv today, said he was struck by what he saw: the aftermath of another deadly night for civilians, with homes, a hospital and a school hit. The continued toll on civilians, he said, should outrage us all.
We, along with our humanitarian partners, provided an immediate emergency response following the attacks in Kyiv City and the surrounding region, complementing the efforts of emergency services and municipal workers.
They provided first aid and psychological first aid, hot meals and construction materials, as well as humanitarian cash assistance.
Today in Kyiv, Under-Secretary-General Fletcher met with senior officials, including Andrii Sybiha, the Minister of Foreign Affairs, and shared his condolences on the deaths from the heavy overnight strikes. Mr. Fletcher also met Denys Shmyal, the First Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Energy, and Denys Uliutin, the Minister of Social Policy, Family and Unity.
Full Highlights: https://www.un.org/sg/en/content/noon-briefing-highlight?date=2026-08-20