Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy took the opportunity at the UN General Assembly to urge global leaders to stand with Ukraine and support his country in seeking a “real, just peace” in the face of Russia’s full-scale invasion. Zelenskyy emphasized that there is no alternative to the “peace formula” he presented two years ago, which includes the expulsion of all Russian forces from Ukraine and accountability for war crimes. He warned against seeking alternative paths to peace, calling them efforts to achieve an “out” instead of an end to the war, and urged the world to remain united in order to bring peace to the region. Russian President Vladimir Putin, facing an International Criminal Court arrest warrant over military actions in Ukraine, did not attend this year’s General Assembly.
Zelenskyy argued that Russia needs to be “forced into peace” during a speech at the UN Security Council, stating that there is no point in pursuing peace talks with Putin. In response, the Kremlin spokesperson characterized Zelenskyy’s call for compulsion as a “fatal mistake” and warned that it will have consequences for the Kyiv regime. Zelenskyy is expected to present a Victory Plan to US President Joe Biden aimed at addressing the ongoing conflict in Ukraine. The war in Ukraine has been a central topic at past General Assemblies, but this year, attention has shifted to other conflicts in the region.
The war in Ukraine has been ongoing for two-and-a-half years, with both Ukraine and Russia locked in conflict along a 1,000-kilometre front line. Russia has gained momentum in Ukraine’s east, while Ukraine surprised Russia with an incursion across the border last month. Zelenskyy’s calls for global support and the expulsion of Russian forces from Ukraine indicate the ongoing urgency of the situation. The conflict in Ukraine has been a source of tension and concern for the international community, with the need for a peaceful resolution remaining a top priority for leaders worldwide.
Zelenskyy’s speech at the General Assembly highlighted the need for unity among nations in order to achieve peace in Ukraine and bring an end to the ongoing conflict. By emphasizing the importance of the “peace formula” he presented two years ago, Zelenskyy made it clear that there is no alternative path to peace in Ukraine. The international community faces the challenge of navigating the complexities of the conflict and finding a resolution that will bring stability to the region. As Ukraine and Russia continue their struggle along the front line, the need for global support and diplomatic efforts remains paramount in order to achieve a lasting peace in the region.
The conflict in Ukraine has been a central issue at the UN General Assembly, with Zelenskyy’s impassioned plea for support and unity resonating with leaders around the world. The ongoing fighting and tensions between Ukraine and Russia underscore the need for a concerted effort to address the root causes of the conflict and find a peaceful resolution. Zelenskyy’s call for a “real, just peace” reflects the urgent need to bring an end to the violence and suffering in Ukraine, as the international community grapples with the complexities of the situation. By standing together and remaining united in their support for Ukraine, global leaders can work towards a lasting peace that will bring stability and security to the region.
