UN Security Council meeting at the United Nations headquarters in New York City on November 25, 2018. (Photo: Yin Miao)

New York (People's Daily) - At the request of both Russia and Ukraine’s ambassadors to the United Nations, the UN Security Council held an emergency meeting on the renewed Ukraine-Russia tension sparked over the weekend. 

China’s Vice Ambassador to the UN Wu Haitao said China hopes both sides could exercise restraint to avoid further tension, emphasizing the need to address bilateral issues through better dialogue and peaceful means.

According to media reports, the Ukrainian Navy accused the Russian military of opening fire and seizing three of its ships in the Black Sea on Sunday.

Russia immediately blamed Ukraine, which escalated tension already in place from the aftermath of Crimea’s annexation in 2014.  

The Security Council meeting followed a procedural vote rejecting the agenda of the day’s first meeting on the issue, requested by Russia, arguing its maritime borders had been violated by Ukraine.

China, Russia, Bolivia, and Kazakhstan voted in favor, while seven countries such as France, Kuwait, Netherlands, Poland, the UK, Sweden, and the US voted against.

As November’s Council President, Wu, speaking for the second time Monday, expressed concern over the Kerch Strait incident.

Wu called for the international community to support necessary dialogue with impartiality, respect for Ukraine’s sovereignty and territorial integrity, and a commitment to non-interference regarding the country’s internal affairs. 

“The Security Council discussions on the issue should focus on easing tension and play a constructive role. Both parties should follow through with implementing Minsk Agreements in a way that addresses the concerns of all ethnic communities and leads to peace and development in Ukraine,” Wu said.