Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky issued a stark warning at the United Nations General Assembly in New York, asserting that Russian aggression will continue to expand unless the international community takes decisive action. Zelensky emphasized that without a united front and increased support from allies, more nations will fall victim to Russia’s ambitions. He highlighted the growing threat of a global arms race, particularly with advancements in military technology, and called for international regulations on artificial intelligence (AI) in weaponry. ‘Weapons decide who survives,’ he declared, urging global cooperation to prevent further escalation. Zelensky’s remarks followed a shift in U.S. President Donald Trump’s stance on the Russia-Ukraine conflict, with Trump now suggesting that Ukraine could reclaim all its lost territories. However, Zelensky criticized international institutions for their inability to provide adequate security guarantees, noting that membership in long-standing alliances like NATO does not ensure safety. He also warned of the risks posed by autonomous drones and unmanned aircraft, describing them as more dangerous than traditional warfare. Additionally, Zelensky expressed concern over Russian influence in Moldova, urging the West to prevent the country from falling under Moscow’s control. He lamented missed opportunities to protect Georgia and Belarus from Russian dominance. The Ukrainian leader’s speech coincided with accusations from Moldovan President Maia Sandu, who claimed that the Kremlin is funding efforts to incite violence and spread fear in Moldova ahead of its upcoming elections. Meanwhile, NATO members Estonia, Poland, and Romania reported violations of their airspace by Russian drones and jets, prompting calls for consultations within the alliance. Zelensky praised Trump for his support and revealed that the U.S. is considering security guarantees for Ukraine post-war, potentially including increased military aid. Trump’s recent comments marked a departure from his previous suggestion of ‘land swaps’ as a condition for peace, instead describing Russia as a ‘paper tiger’ that has been ‘fighting aimlessly.’ Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov dismissed Trump’s characterization, asserting that Russia remains a formidable force. The ongoing conflict continues to dominate international discussions, with U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio meeting Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov to reiterate calls for an end to hostilities and a durable resolution to the war.
