“This group of evacuees arrived safely in Zaporizhzhia today, May 8. My thoughts are with them and all the people in Ukraine who are suffering in this war,” António Guterres said in a statement.
“I thank all those involved in this complex operation, including the leaders in Kyiv and Moscow for ensuring the necessary humanitarian pauses. I applaud the determination and courage of the UN and ICRC (International Committee of the Red Cross) teams on the ground.”

“I urge the parties to the conflict to spare no effort to secure safe passage for all those wishing to leave, in any direction they choose, and for aid to reach people in need.”