UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres on Wednesday condemned Russia’s invasion of Ukraine, which he called a violation of the UN Charter and international law, and drew attention to Russia’s threats of possible use of nuclear weapons, Reuters reported.

UN Secretary General Antonio GuterresPhoto: John Lamparski/NurPhoto/Shutterstock Editorial/Profimedia

Since Moscow’s invasion of its neighbor on February 24 last year, Russian President Vladimir Putin has repeatedly hinted that Russia could use nuclear weapons if threatened.

“I heard implicit threats to use nuclear weapons. The so-called tactical use of nuclear weapons is absolutely unacceptable. It is time to step back from the brink,” Guterres told the 193-member UN General Assembly at a meeting marking the anniversary of the start of the war.

The General Assembly is due to adopt a draft resolution, likely on Thursday, which emphasizes “the need to achieve a comprehensive, just and durable peace as soon as possible” under the UN Charter.

Guterres called the UN Charter “unequivocal,” citing that “all members in their international relations refrain from the threat or use of force against the territorial integrity or political independence of any state.”

Ukraine and its supporters hope to deepen Russia’s diplomatic isolation by trying to secure the approval of nearly three-quarters of the General Assembly to match — if not better — support for several resolutions last year.

“The position of the UN is clear: we are committed to the sovereignty, independence, unity and territorial integrity of Ukraine within its internationally recognized borders,” Guterres said.

In the draft text, the General Assembly again asks Moscow to withdraw its troops and will demand an end to hostilities. Resolutions of the General Assembly are not binding, but have political weight.

Follow the latest events of the 364th day of the war in Ukraine LIVETEXT on HOTNEWS.RO.