Ukraine’s Zelenskiy Urges UN to Push Russia Toward Peace, Reports Reuters

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskiy addressed the United Nations Security Council, asserting that peace in the ongoing war between Russia and Ukraine cannot be achieved through dialogue alone; rather, Moscow must be compelled to cease hostilities.

Zelenskiy has been rallying support from Western leaders for what he describes as a “victory plan” aimed at bringing an end to the conflict that began with Russia’s full-scale invasion in February 2022. He emphasized that the war will come to a close not because of fatigue or negotiations with Russian President Vladimir Putin, particularly rejecting proposals that would require Ukraine to relinquish territory seized by Russia.

“This war can’t be calmed by talks. Action is needed,” Zelenskiy stated while expressing gratitude to nations that have offered support to Ukraine. He highlighted that Putin has violated numerous international norms and will not voluntarily stop the aggression, insisting that only external pressure can lead Russia to peace.

Zelenskiy also criticized North Korea and Iran for supplying arms to Russia, labeling them as “de facto accomplices” in the conflict. As Ukraine confronts an uncertain future, the potential outcome of the upcoming U.S. elections, particularly a victory by former President Donald Trump, could lead to significant changes in Washington’s approach towards Ukraine, which heavily depends on U.S. military and financial assistance. Current polls indicate a close race in the U.S.

Over two and a half years post-invasion, Russia currently occupies around 20% of Ukrainian territory and is making advances in the eastern regions. Zelenskiy believes that Western backing of his plan could have widespread effects on Moscow, potentially influencing Putin to pursue a diplomatic resolution.

While details about his victory plan remain limited, it is intended to facilitate a second Ukraine-led peace summit that Kyiv wishes to host, inviting Russia later in the year.

During the Security Council meeting, Russian Ambassador Vassily Nebenzia criticized the council’s decision to host Zelenskiy, accusing Western nations of exacerbating tensions. The meeting also witnessed a confrontation between the top diplomats of China and the United States. U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken called out China for supplying essential materials to Russia, which are being used to bolster its military capabilities.

In response, China’s Foreign Minister Wang Yi refuted the allegations, stating that it is irresponsible to place blame on China regarding the Ukraine issue, asserting that such accusations will not be productive.