Translation. Region: Russian Federation –
Source: United Nations – United Nations –
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December 17, 2025 UN
The top news of the day at the UN and around the world: the Secretary-General warned of the risks of escalating conflict in Yemen, fighting in Sudan, a new strain of the flu virus, and the consequences of Cyclone Ditwa in Sri Lanka.
The situation in Yemen
Tensions in Yemen: António Guterres, speaking to journalists in New York after his briefing on the situation in the country for the Security Council, said unilateral actions, such as the recent advance of forces affiliated with the Southern Transitional Council in the eastern provinces, "increase the risk of wider escalation and further fragmentation." The UN chief recalled that the parties to the conflict had already come close to peace in 2022 and 2023, but subsequent events "have seriously complicated the situation." Nevertheless, he emphasized, "peace is possible."
Crisis in Sudan
The Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs is warning of growing humanitarian needs in Sudan as civilians continue to flee fighting in the Kordofan region. The International Organization for Migration estimates that more than 9.3 million people remain internally displaced in 18 states across the country. Many are at risk of starvation. Furthermore, the World Health Organization has expressed concern that more than 70 health workers and approximately 5,000 civilians have reportedly been forcibly detained in Nyala, the capital of South Darfur state.
Flu season
The flu season in Europe and Central Asia has started much earlier than usual, with the spread of the infection being facilitated by the emergence of new dominant strain of the virusA number of countries are experiencing significant strain on their healthcare systems. Vaccination remains the most important measure to prevent severe influenza, especially for high-risk groups such as the elderly, people with chronic illnesses, children, pregnant women, and healthcare workers. The WHO recommends staying home if you feel unwell, wearing a mask in public places if you have respiratory symptoms, covering your mouth and nose when coughing and sneezing, washing your hands regularly, and ventilating your indoor spaces more frequently.
Cyclone in Sri Lanka
The International Organization for Migration (IOM) today appealed for $7.3 million to support more than 100,000 people affected by Cyclone Ditwa in Sri Lanka. The storm forced more than 280,000 people from their homes, damaging or destroying more than 81,000 shelters. The UN agency is calling for urgent support for families facing continued displacement and disrupted access to essential services.
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