Ukraine at the UN Security Council: Our desire for peace is undeniable, but not by giving up independence.

Ukraine's Deputy Foreign Minister Maryana Betza stated at the UN Security Council meeting that since March 11, the Russians have dropped nearly 8,500 guided bombs on Ukraine, ignoring the US proposal for a ceasefire. Betza also emphasized that Russia used a ballistic missile developed in North Korea during the shelling of Kyiv on April 24. She noted that Russia is actively recruiting Chinese citizens through social media.

The Deputy Minister called for a ceasefire and the return of Ukrainian children, prisoners of war, and illegally detained persons. She stressed that any future agreements must adhere to Ukraine's 'red lines', which include non-recognition of occupied territories, refusal to submit to dictation regarding armed forces, and non-recognition of limitations on sovereignty. Betza warned that aggression cannot be rewarded and aggressors cannot be made peacekeepers, as this violates international law and threatens global security.