President Volodymyr Zelensky has told the UN General Assembly in New York that Russia must face “just punishment” over its invasion of Ukraine.
In a pre-recorded video, he called for the creation of a special war tribunal and detailed alleged war crimes by Russia. He also set out a “formula” inclusive of more military support and to punish Russia on the world stage. Russian leader Vladimir Putin had earlier called out for 300,000 reservists for duty.
This move led to rare protests in dozens of cities in Russia and Mr. Zelensky said that partial mobilization showed his enemy was not serious about peace talks. The Kremlin said that the call-up would be restricted and limited to those who had completed military service and had significant skills and combat experience. However, reports say that some of those who were arrested during the protests in Moscow were also told they would have to sign up.
The Ukrainian leader said that the creation of a special tribunal would help Moscow to account for stealing territory and killing thousands of people. On Wednesday, his address received a standing ovation from a number of attendees.
Despite its decision to bolster its military campaign by Russia, both sides participated in the biggest exchange of prisoners since the beginning of the war.
He said that Russia should face consequences for its aggression by further sanctions and by the UN stripping Moscow of its powerful role as a permanent member of the Security Council. He called for Ukrainian lives to be protected, and for the borders to be respected. As his fourth and fifth conditions, he called for new security guarantees for Kyiv and the world to come together and unite in calling out Moscow’s armed aggression.
He blasted the seven countries, including Russia that voted against his video and criticised those who have remained neutral during the conflict. See when Ukraine President Volodymyr Zelenskyy addresses Congress
