We demand just punishment: Zelensky in UNGA
Laying out what he called his conditions for peace, Zelensky -- the sole leader allowed to address the summit virtually -- called 15 times for "punishment" of Russia over its invasion.
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New York, Sept 22: Ukrainian leader Volodymyr Zelensky demanded Wednesday that the world punish Russia in a dramatic 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, Zelensky -- 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. In a pre-recorded video, " punish for tortures and humiliations of women and men," Zelensky said in English. 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 mobilized 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 fears real negotiations and does not want to fulfill any fair international obligations. It lies to everyone -- as is typical for aggressors, for terrorists." Zelensky has become a symbol of resistance in the West, which has responded with broad sanctions on Russia and billions of dollars in military equipment for Ukraine. But the former actor appeared conscious of the resentment in the developing world about the focus on Ukraine. He pointed to the lack of African and Latin American representation on the Security Council as he called for Russia to be stripped of its veto power. Biden also sought to woo the developing world, announcing another $2.9 billion to address global food insecurity -- which has worsened markedly since the invasion of Ukraine, a major grain exporter. And he threw his support behind Security Council seats for Africa and Latin America. "Russia has shamelessly violated the core tenets of the United Nations Charter," Biden told the General Assembly.
"Let us speak plainly. A permanent member of the United Nations Security Council invaded its neighbor -- attempted to erase the sovereign state from the map." The United States has previously offered verbal support but little enthusiasm for years of calls to reform the Security Council. It has earlier backed bids by Japan and India.