Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy delivered a powerful speech at the 79th United Nations General Assembly, condemning nations that have supported Russia in its ongoing invasion of Ukraine. Zelenskyy specifically targeted China, North Korea, and Iran for their roles in aiding Moscow.
Zelenskyy emphasized the need for a peaceful resolution to the conflict and questioned why some nations were hesitant to support Ukraine's demands for Russian troops to withdraw. He criticized those who sought alternatives to a just peace, suggesting that such actions aligned with Putin's agenda.
The President also highlighted China's attempt to promote a six-point peace plan, which lacked concrete steps to end the war and did not call for Russia's withdrawal from Ukraine. Zelenskyy called out Iran and North Korea for providing direct military aid to Russia, a move he had not previously addressed at the international level.
One of the key concerns raised by Zelenskyy was the threat Russia posed to nuclear security. He warned that radiation knows no borders and highlighted Russia's targeting of Ukraine's energy sector, including plans to disrupt nuclear power plants.
Zelenskyy accused Putin of attempting to weaken Ukraine by targeting critical infrastructure, such as thermal and hydroelectric power plants. He cautioned that Russia's tactics extended to planning attacks on nuclear facilities, with alleged assistance from unidentified nations.
The Ukrainian leader's speech underscored the ongoing challenges faced by Ukraine in the conflict with Russia and the broader implications for global security. Zelenskyy's strong stance at the UNGA sent a clear message to nations supporting Moscow and reiterated Ukraine's commitment to defending its sovereignty and territorial integrity.