During a session of the U.N. Security Council, Ukraine’s president firmly accused Russia of engaging in “a criminal and unwarranted act of aggression” that blatantly violates established norms of warfare and the principles outlined in the U.N. charter.

Volodymyr Zelenskyy also implored world leaders to consider revoking Russia’s veto authority.

In his address to the council, the Ukrainian leader emphasized that his plan to bring an end to the 19-month-long conflict hinges on upholding the charter, which safeguards the sovereignty and territorial integrity of all 193 U.N. member states.

He underscored that the restoration of all Ukrainian territory serves as the fundamental prerequisite for achieving lasting peace, the Associated Press reports.

There had been considerable speculation before the meeting regarding the potential for a confrontation or dialogue between Zelenskyy and Russia’s top diplomat, Sergey Lavrov, or even the possibility of them avoiding each other entirely.

However, no direct encounter took place, as Zelenskyy departed from the council shortly after delivering his speech.

The session commenced with a contentious exchange over Zelenskyy’s address, with Russian U.N. Ambassador Vassily Nebenzia expressing objections to the council president’s decision to allow Zelenskyy to speak ahead of the 15 council members.

Written by staff