Photo UN/M. Elias Secretary-General Antonio Guterres speaks at a UN Security Council meeting on natural resource management. Top news of the day | Wednesday: Ukraine, minerals, Nicaragua, candidates for the post of Secretary General UN
The main news of the day in the UN and in the world: Winter response plan for Ukraine, debates in the Security Council on natural resource management, shrinking political space in Nicaragua, general meeting with candidates for the post of UN Secretary General.
Help to Ukraine
In anticipation of another winter, which Ukraine may face again in conditions of war, the UN and partners presented a Winter Response Plan for the period 2026-2027. $358.4 million is needed to help the country’s 2.1 million most vulnerable people. The plan took into account the experience of last winter, when shocks led to widespread interruptions in the supply of heat, water and electricity. Between October 2026 and March 2027, humanitarian organizations plan to provide heating and housing support, medical and food assistance, protection, and cash transfers.
Natural Resources
Illegal extraction and exploitation of natural resources fuels conflict, strengthens the influence of criminal gangs and prevents countries from using their own wealth for development. This was stated by UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres, speaking at a high-level open debate held today in the Security Council. Growing global demand for minerals used in electronics and clean energy is opening up new opportunities, the UN chief said. At the same time, he emphasized that countries and local communities must first benefit from the natural resources that they have.
The situation in Nicaragua
The UN Secretary-General is closely monitoring developments in Nicaragua and expresses concern about the continued shrinking of civil and political space in the country. This was stated today by the press secretary of the UN chief Stephane Dujarric. The UN reminds that authorities are responsible for respecting human rights and must ensure that all citizens have the opportunity to freely and safely participate in public life, including exercising their right to vote. Nicaraguan Co-President Daniel Ortega has reportedly announced that elections scheduled for next year will not be held.
UN Secretary-General Elections
On Thursday, July 23, a general meeting will be held at the UN General Assembly Hall in New York with the six official candidates for the post of the next Secretary-General of the United Nations Nations. They will answer questions from journalists and meeting participants about the most pressing challenges facing the international community. According to UNGA President Annalena Baerbock, this will give a global audience a rare opportunity to get to know the ideas, priorities and vision of candidates for one of the most important positions in the world. The meeting will be broadcast on UN Web TV.