Zelensky's Powerful UN Speech Calls for Unprecedented Unity

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky called on the international community to unite against Russian aggression in a powerful speech at the UN General Assembly on Tuesday. This was his first in-person address to the global body since Russia's invasion in 2022.

Zelensky stated that the aim of the ongoing war in Ukraine is to manipulate its territory, population, and resources as a means to undermine the international rules-based order. He warned that the General Assembly hall could be left with numerous vacant seats if Russia's deceitful and aggressive actions prevail.

Greeted with enthusiastic applause upon his arrival on stage, Zelensky utilized his allotted 15 minutes to denounce the Russian leaders for their acts of terrorism and genocide. He specifically highlighted the distressing issue of Ukrainian children being forcefully taken away from their home country.

For a considerable period, Ukraine has consistently put forth allegations against Russia regarding the coerced deportation of Ukrainian children from areas under occupation. These serious accusations have resulted in an international arrest warrant being issued against Russian President Vladimir Putin on charges of committing war crimes.

Some Russian officials have acknowledged the procedure, proudly flaunting their initiatives to welcome children to Russia, place them in Russian households, and, on certain occasions, grant them Russian passports.

Zelensky addresses the United Nations General Assembly on September 19.

Richard Drew/AP

Zelensky further expressed concern about the country's use of the global food trade as a strategic weapon. He also criticized the unsuccessful revival of the Black Sea grain deal and accused other countries of converting their power plants into dangerous weapons. Zelensky emphasized the need for restraint in weaponization, punishment for war crimes, repatriation of deported individuals, and the withdrawal of occupiers from foreign territories. He stressed the importance of unity in achieving these goals.

The Ukrainian president cautioned other countries about engaging in dubious cooperation with Russia, highlighting the recent demise of Yevgeny Prigozhin, the head of Russian mercenary group Wagner. He asserted, "I am informed of their undisclosed attempts to engage in questionable dealings. Trust cannot be placed in malevolence. If one relies on Putin's assurances, ask Prigozhin."

The Russian delegate at the General Assembly was captured on UN cameras multitasking, taking notes and glancing at his phone during the speech. Zelensky's upcoming plans include a meeting with President Joe Biden followed by a trip to Washington later this week.