United Nations: Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy on Wednesday demanded the world to punish Russia in a video address to the UN General Assembly, where US President Joe Biden accused Moscow of violating basic international norms.
Laying out what he called his conditions for peace, Zelenskyy — the sole leader allowed to address the summit virtually — called 15 times for “punishment” of Russia over its invasion.
“Ukraine demands punishment for trying to steal our territory. Punishment for the murders of thousands of people. Punishment for tortures and humiliations of women and men,” Zelenskyy said in English in a pre-recorded video.
Sporting his signature green military T-shirt, Zelensky received a rare standing ovation in the General Assembly, which has returned in person after two years of pandemic restrictions.
Zelensky called for a special tribunal to hold Russia accountable, saying it would be a “signal to all would-be aggressors.”
He also demanded a compensation fund, saying Russia “should pay for this war with its own assets.”
His address came hours after Russian President Vladimir Putin mobilised reservists and made a veiled threat to use nuclear weapons, signs that he is in no rush to end the war.
Zelensky made clear he saw no point in immediate talks, saying Russia only used diplomacy to buy time on the battlefield.
“Russia is afraid of real negotiations and does not want to fulfil any fair international obligations. It lies to everyone — as is typical for aggressors, for terrorists.”