Zelenskyy Addresses UN: Russia’s Strategy Shifts from Battlefield to Civilian Torment

 

UN Photo/Loey Felipe
 
Volodymyr Zelenskyy (at podium and on screens), President of Ukraine, 
addresses the general debate of the General Assembly’s 79th session

25 September 2024 UN Affair

In a poignant address at the United Nations General Assembly, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy expressed grave concerns over Russia's tactics in the ongoing conflict, emphasizing that, unable to secure victory on the battlefield, Russia is resorting to targeting the essential energy infrastructure of Ukraine. With winter looming, Zelenskyy warned that these deliberate assaults threaten to plunge millions of Ukrainians into darkness and cold, as he noted, “Putin wants to leave them in the dark and cold this winter, forcing Ukraine to suffer and surrender.”

Zelenskyy pointed out the devastating impact of Russian attacks, which have already destroyed all of Ukraine’s thermal power plants and significantly diminished its hydro-electric capacity. He urged global leaders to consider the dire implications of such devastation by asking them to imagine their own nations facing the destruction of 80% of their energy systems.

Adding to the urgency of his message, he disclosed intelligence suggesting Moscow's intentions to target Ukraine’s nuclear power plants, raising alarms about the potential for a nuclear disaster. He cautioned, “If, God forbid, Russia causes a nuclear disaster at one of our nuclear power plants, radiation won’t respect state borders, and unfortunately, various nations could feel the devastating effects.”

Zelenskyy also criticized the United Nations Security Council, highlighting its ineffectiveness in addressing the aggression due to Russia's veto power. He contrasted this with his peace proposal, which has garnered support from nearly 100 nations and emphasizes equality among states, free from veto powers. This proposal aims to prioritize nuclear safety, energy security, food security, the return of prisoners of war, and the preservation of Ukraine’s territorial integrity.

In closing, he expressed a desire for “real peace and just peace,” urging global leaders to unite in their support for Ukraine. “I am asking for your support – from all nations of the world. Be united nations, and that will bring us peace,” he implored.

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