Published on: 2026-08-20
Source: United Nations – United Nations –
An important disclaimer is at the bottom of this article.
August 20, 2026 UN
Top news of the day at the UN and worldwide: the head of the UN condemned the massive Russian attack on Kyiv, restrictions on the import of essential goods remain in Gaza, nearly 2,500 people have died from Ebola in the DR Congo, holding elections in South Sudan without security guarantees may lead to mass violence.
Strikes on Kiev
UN Secretary-General António Guterres strongly condemned the massive strikes carried out today by the armed forces of the Russian Federation on Kyiv and other cities in Ukraine. According to reports, dozens of civilians were killed and wounded, and significant damage was caused to civilian infrastructure and residential buildings. The UN Chief is concerned about the escalation, including the spread of hostilities to the territory of Russia. Attacks on civilians and civilian infrastructure constitute a violation of international humanitarian law and must be stopped immediately, emphasized the Secretary-General.
The situation in Gaza
The UN Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs continues to receive reports of deaths and injuries among civilians, including children, in Gaza as a result of Israeli airstrikes and shelling. The UN has once again called for the protection of the enclave’s civilian population. Today in Gaza, the remains of 50 people, including 19 children who died more than two years ago, were finally laid to rest. Their bodies were recovered from under the rubble in recent days. The ability to clear debris remains limited due to bans on the import of heavy machinery, spare parts, and other goods, as well as restricted access to large areas of the sector.
Ebola Outbreak in the DRC
An Ebola outbreak continues in the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC). As of August 18, more than 5,200 cases have been confirmed, including nearly 2,500 deaths. The World Health Organization announced today that 70,000 doses of the Ervebo vaccine, licensed for use against the Zaire strain, have been sent to the DRC. The doses are intended for healthcare workers as well as for conducting a clinical trial to assess the vaccine’s effectiveness against the Bundibugyo virus spreading in the DRC.
Violence in South Sudan
According to the United Nations Commission on Human Rights in South Sudan, as renewed fighting expands in this African country, the risk of large-scale atrocities is increasing. South Sudan is preparing for the first nationwide elections since gaining independence, but the political situation is rapidly deteriorating. The Commission warns: rushing the voting process without the necessary security guarantees could exacerbate existing conflicts and increase the risk of mass crimes, including genocide and ethnic cleansing.
Please note; This information is raw content obtained directly from the information source. It is an accurate report of what the source claims and does not necessarily reflect the position of MIL-OSI or its clients.