UN Chief Expresses Concern Over Rising Death Toll From Attacks on Russia, Guterres Says

United Nations Secretary-General Antonio Guterres has expressed concern over a growing death toll linked to attacks on Russian territory attributed to Ukraine, according to a report from Russian state news agency TASS.

Guterres condemned all attacks targeting civilians and civilian infrastructure, reiterating the UN's longstanding position that such attacks, regardless of which side carries them out, violate international humanitarian law.

Broader UN stance on the conflict

The UN chief has repeatedly called for the protection of civilians throughout the ongoing war between Russia and Ukraine, urging both sides to avoid actions that put non-combatants and essential infrastructure at risk.

Specific figures on the death toll referenced were not detailed in the available report, and it remains unclear which particular incidents or locations Guterres's comments were addressing.

The statement comes amid continued fighting between Russian and Ukrainian forces, with both sides accusing each other of targeting civilian areas as the conflict continues.

The UN has consistently called for adherence to international humanitarian law by all parties involved in the war, though it has limited enforcement power over either side's military conduct.