Russia's Foreign Ministry spokeswoman Maria Zakharova stated that a US-made Patriot missile, potentially with an expired service life, struck the Kiev-Pechersk Lavra. She criticized French President Emmanuel Macron for blaming Russia without acknowledging Kiev's actions and highlighted UNESCO's offer to assess damage.
The UN Human Rights Chief, Volker Turk, condemned a "sharp increase" in drone warfare in Sudan, where over 1,000 civilians were killed by drone strikes between January and May 2026. The conflict, now in its fourth year, has led to widespread human rights violations and is described as the world's largest hunger crisis.
UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres welcomed the announcement of a peace deal between the US and Iran, citing an immediate ceasefire, reopening of the Strait of Hormuz, and a framework for future talks as critical steps towards conflict resolution.
The US and Iran are reportedly nearing a deal to end months of conflict and reopen the Strait of Hormuz, a vital oil transit route. The agreement, if signed, would see Iran halt uranium enrichment and end support for regional proxies. Former President Obama expressed skepticism, questioning its difference from the 2015 deal.
US Permanent Representative to the UN Mike Waltz expressed confidence that a deal with Iran would be signed on Sunday, June 14. He stated that the US will not provide upfront cash, emphasizing a 'pay for performance' approach for any unfrozen assets or sanctions relief. Pakistani PM Shehbaz Sharif also indicated a peace agreement is likely within 24 hours.
Fifa President Gianni Infantino urged fans to "chill and relax" ahead of the World Cup, defending the organization's handling of ticket prices and visa issues. He also thanked Donald Trump for his assistance in organizing the tournament.
A UN report reveals the significant environmental impact of AI, including massive energy and water consumption, land use, and e-waste generation. Data centers alone consumed 448 TWh of electricity last year, ranking them 11th globally. By 2030, AI infrastructure could produce 2.5 million tonnes of e-waste annually.
Bangladesh's Foreign Minister Khalilur Rahman won the UN General Assembly presidency, defeating Cyprus' Ambassador Andreas Kakouris. Rahman, who previously served as national security adviser and ambassador, will lead the 193-member body starting in September.
The World Meteorological Organization (WMO) predicts an 80% chance of El Nino developing between June and August, potentially influencing global weather. Forecasts indicate a shift towards El Nino conditions, with probabilities nearing 90% by November, suggesting a moderate to strong event.
Germany is competing for a non-permanent seat on the UN Security Council, highlighting its financial contributions and commitment to international law. However, critics point to perceived double standards regarding the Israel-Gaza conflict and the UN's diminishing influence.
Germany is campaigning for a non-permanent seat on the UN Security Council, emphasizing its financial contributions and experience. However, it faces competition and criticism over perceived double standards regarding international law, particularly concerning the Israel-Gaza and Ukraine conflicts. Security Council reform remains unlikely.
Thailand has terminated a 2001 agreement with Cambodia concerning maritime claims in the Gulf of Thailand. Cambodia's action highlights potential differences in resolving border disputes, despite a fragile ceasefire.
Russia's UN envoy Vasily Nebenzya criticized the UN Secretariat and IAEA for an "ambiguous stance" on strikes at the Zaporozhye Nuclear Power Plant, accusing them of "playing both sides" and creating an "atmosphere of permissiveness" for Kyiv.
Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi stated that strategic coordination and mutual wisdom between Beijing and Moscow are ushering in a new era for China-Russia relations, characterized by promising and rapid development. He emphasized their commitment to a UN-based international system and a multipolar world order.
Panama's Foreign Minister Javier Martinez-Acha called for dialogue over confrontation with China at a UN Security Council debate, amid deteriorating relations due to a canal dispute, while China's Wang Yi warned of disregarded UN Charter purposes.
Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi warned that global peace and security are at risk due to disregard for the UN Charter's principles, indirectly criticizing the US without naming it. He urged the UN Security Council to fulfill its responsibilities and hoped for a peaceful resolution between the US and Iran.
SIPRI warns that geopolitical tensions and funding shortages are jeopardizing UN peacekeeping missions. The number of deployed international staff fell to under 79,000 in 2025, the lowest in 25 years, with 58 operations active, below 60 for the first time since 2016.
SIPRI reports that geopolitical tensions and a funding crisis are jeopardizing UN peacekeeping missions. The number of deployed international staff fell to under 79,000 in 2025, the lowest in 25 years, with 58 operations active, down from previous years.
Unesco has opened its first "category one" institute in China, the first of its kind in 14 years. Director-General Khaled El-Enany stated that China, particularly Shanghai, was a natural choice due to its significant investments in technology, talent, and education, making it a major hub for research and innovation.
Maximo Torero, Chief Economist at the FAO, warns that the war in Iran is severely disrupting the global fertilizer supply, potentially leading to a food crisis within a year.
UN Under-Secretary-General Miguel Angel Moratinos stated that Russia is ready to collaborate in combating extremism and other emerging global challenges. He highlighted Russia's historical support for the UN Alliance of Civilizations, particularly in addressing violent extremism.
UN Under-Secretary-General Miguel Angel Moratinos stated the situation for Islam and Muslims in Russia is "perfect" and "excellent," citing good integration and relations with the Orthodox Church. He contrasted this with Europe and the US, which he described as having "contaminated" political scenarios regarding Islam.
A four-week UN conference reviewing the Nuclear Nonproliferation Treaty concluded Friday without consensus among 191 parties. The US and Iran clashed over Iran's nuclear program, with the US calling Iran a "prolific treaty violator" and Iran accusing the US and allies of "unlawful attacks."
Vietnam's UN Ambassador Do Hung Viet announced a lack of consensus among 191 parties to the Nuclear Nonproliferation Treaty on a final document. The US and Iran clashed during the review conference, with accusations of contempt and violations of international law regarding nuclear sites.
