Status: 09/22/2022 01:11 a.m
The speech by the Ukrainian president is considered one of the highlights of this year’s general debate at the UN General Assembly – and comes after the Kremlin ordered partial Russian mobilization. Zelenskyy calls on the world to punish Russia harshly.
In the general debate at the UN General Assembly, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy called for severe punishment and isolation of Russia. In his eagerly awaited speech via video link, Zelenskyi demanded that Moscow have to withdraw its veto right in the UN Security Council.
Aggressors must be held accountable and kept out of international decisions. “A crime was committed against Ukraine and we demand just punishment,” said Zelenskyy.
Part of this punishment must be depriving Russia of the right to vote in international institutions and the right of veto as one of the five permanent members of the Security Council.
“Russia wants war”
Zelenskyj also addressed the partial mobilization in Russia announced by Kremlin chief Vladimir Putin. This is proof that Moscow is not serious about peace talks.
The Russian talk about negotiations is more of a delaying tactic. Moscow’s actions spoke louder than words. “They talk about talks, but announce military mobilization. They talk about talks, but announce pseudo-referees in the occupied territories of Ukraine,” Zelenskyy said.
Moscow wants to prepare its troops in Ukraine for a new offensive in winter or at least prepare defense systems while more troops are mobilized. “Russia wants war. It’s true. But Russia will not be able to stop the course of history,”» the Ukrainian leader said. Mankind and international law are stronger than the “terror state” Russia.
Selenskyj demands more arms deliveries
Zelenskyy reiterated his demand for more weapons for his country. Ukraine will succeed in repelling Russia’s attack and pushing out its troops. “We can return the Ukrainian flag to our entire territory. We can do it by force of arms. But we need time.”
For his speech, Zelenskyi was given special permission to join the general debate at the UN General Assembly from his country, which had been attacked by Russia.