United Nations — 

The foreign minister of Ukraine appealed for global assistance on Friday at the United Nations, marking two years since Russia initiated a complete invasion and warfare against their nation. This plea comes at a time when the world’s attention is divided by various crises and conflicts, and when military aid from the U.S. is being delayed in Congress.

Dmytro Kuleba stated at a gathering of the U.N. General Assembly, with representatives from various countries in attendance, that Moscow’s goal is to annihilate Ukraine and they have been openly vocal about it.

However, he was enthusiastic about declaring Ukraine’s desire for peace to the world.

Ukraine’s desire for peace is unmatched by any other nation, as our country bears the greatest burden. However, we understand that peace must be fair and lasting. Merely pausing the war in hopes that the aggressor will eventually choose peace is not a viable solution.

According to him, Ukraine intends to utilize President Volodymyr Zelenskyy’s 10-point plan for peace as a guide to resolve the conflict. They also plan to hold a peace summit in Switzerland to discuss this with the international community.

In December 2022, a proposal was made that includes the removal of Russian soldiers, cessation of hostilities, nuclear safety measures, the liberation of all detainees, and the reestablishment of Ukraine’s complete land sovereignty.

He later informed journalists that a couple of years back, numerous specialists and diplomats had doubts about Ukraine’s ability to withstand Russia’s all-out attack, and currently those individuals remain skeptical about Ukraine’s chances of winning the war.

He stated that Ukraine successfully endured the invasion and will emerge victorious in the war. If we work together and cooperate, this outcome will occur sooner rather than later.

The Russian representative to the United Nations restated the assertions made by the Kremlin that they were not accountable for the conflict and were only safeguarding Russian-speaking individuals who were facing discrimination from Kyiv.

According to Vassily Nebenzia, Russia did not initiate this conflict, rather it intervened in order to bring it to a resolution. The Kyiv government could have avoided this by respecting the rights of its citizens, allowing them to live peacefully on their own land, receive education in their own language, and have the freedom of religion and expression.

According to him, Russia’s “special military operation” or what the Kremlin refers to as their invasion will be achieved, and they are open to achieving this through negotiations. However, he rejected Zelenskyy’s peace proposal as a “demand” towards Russia and suggested that countries should not bother with it.

“Unbreakable spirit”

The nations of Europe and the United States reaffirmed their unwavering support for Ukraine.

Linda Thomas-Greenfield, the U.S. Ambassador, commended the enduring resilience of the Ukrainian population and highlighted it as a role model for all individuals.

She spoke of regular and remarkable individuals, greatly outnumbered, fiercely protecting their neighborhoods. Teachers converting shelters into learning spaces. City employees finding methods to restore warmth and power after attacks. Families rationing food to feed those around them.

She stated that the international community must use a collective voice to call for an end to the war in Russia.

Thomas-Greenfield stated that it is necessary for Russia to remove its troops from Ukraine’s recognized borders and adhere to the fundamental principles of sovereignty and territorial integrity.

British Foreign Secretary David Cameron cautioned that Russian President Vladimir Putin has demonstrated his desire to seize the land belonging to others, as evidenced by his actions in South Ossetia in 2008 and Crimea in 2014. Without being halted, he returned for further territory in 2022.

Cameron stated that if we do not confront Putin, he will continue to attempt to seize control of Ukraine. This lesson is evident from his past failed attempts.

He acknowledged that certain members of the global community may be weary of the ongoing conflict and may find a compromise to be an attractive solution.

Cameron stated that this is incorrect and we need to acknowledge the consequences of surrendering.

The foreign minister of Luxembourg expressed a similar viewpoint, stating to journalists that Russia’s aggression would not cease if Ukraine is left behind.

Xavier Bettel stated that it is uncertain who will be the next person.

He warned that Ukraine currently has less bargaining power in the conflict compared to earlier, and Russia will not engage in negotiations while holding a stronger position.

According to him, backing Ukraine also means supporting negotiations.

Approximately 60 nations were anticipated to address the meeting on Friday.

The United Nations Security Council will convene on Friday. According to U.N. Secretary-General Antonio Guterres, the past two years since Russia’s complete invasion of Ukraine have been marked by excessive suffering and tensions in international relations.

“Enough,” he said.

It is past due for a peaceful resolution, one that is fair and follows the principles outlined in the United Nations Charter, international law, and resolutions passed by the General Assembly.

Source: voanews.com