Ukraine criticizes UN chief for meeting Putin during BRICS summit

In a significant diplomatic event, U.N. Secretary-General António Guterres is preparing to meet Russian President Vladimir Putin at the BRICS summit hosted in Kazan, Russia. This summit, held on Thursday, has drawn attention not only for its representation of major economies but also for its geopolitical implications, particularly considering the ongoing conflict in Ukraine. The summit has been positioned as an avenue for countries aligned against Western influence to engage in economic partnership discussions. The decision to meet with Putin, however, has stirred controversy. Ukraine's foreign ministry has criticized Guterres for what they perceive as a betrayal of the principles of international diplomacy. They argue that engaging with Putin amidst the illegal war in Ukraine sends a conflicting message that undermines global efforts for peace. This meeting is particularly sensitive as it marks the first direct communication between the U.N. chief and the Russian leader in more than two years, escalating concerns in Kyiv regarding the legitimacy of the dialogue. The BRICS summit includes delegates from 10 member states, representing a significant portion of the global economy and population. Leaders from various nations, including those with strained ties to the West, are participating. Amid the ongoing war and global geopolitical shifts, this convergence of leaders presents both opportunities and challenges to international relations. As the summit unfolds, the implications of Guterres's meeting with Putin will likely reverberate through diplomatic channels, highlighting the enduring complexities of peace negotiations in conflict zones and the roles of powerful international bodies like the U.N.