Ukraine's Zelenskiy tells UN Russia must be forced into peace
World
Ukraine's Zelenskiy tells UN Russia must be forced into peace
UNITED NATIONS (Reuters) - Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskiy told the United Nations Security Council on Tuesday that the war between Russia and Ukraine cannot be calmed by talks alone, but that Moscow must be forced into peace.
Zelenskiy has sought the support of Western leaders for what he calls a "victory plan" to end the war that began when Russia launched a full-scale invasion of his country in February 2022.
Zelenskiy said the war would end one day but not because "someone got tired of the war" or through a trade with Russian President Vladimir Putin, a reference to proposals that Ukraine cede some territory seized by Russia to settle the conflict.
"This war can't be calmed by talks. Action is needed," Zelenskiy said, thanking nations who have provided Ukraine support.
"Putin has broken so many international norms and rules that he won't stop on his own, Russia can only be forced into peace, and that is exactly what's needed, forcing Russia into peace, as the sole aggressor in this war, the sole violator of the U.N. Charter," Zelenskiy said.
Zelenskiy took aim at North Korea and Iran for providing arms to Russia for the war, calling them "de facto accomplices" of Moscow.
Ukraine faces an uncertain future. A victory by former President Donald Trump over Vice President Kamala Harris in the Nov. 5 U.S. election could prompt a reset of Washington's policy on Ukraine, which relies heavily on US military and financial support. Opinion polls show a tight US race.
More than 2-1/2 years since the invasion, Russia controls about 20% of Ukrainian territory and has been advancing in the east.
