In a recent address to the United Nations General Assembly, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskiy firmly rejected alternative peace proposals for the ongoing conflict with Russia, particularly those put forth by China and Brazil. The speech, delivered on September 25, 2024, highlighted the tensions surrounding international efforts to resolve the war that began with Russia's invasion of Ukraine in February 2022.
Zelenskiy defended his own 10-point peace plan, which he introduced in November 2022, nine months after the invasion commenced. This plan, rooted in the principles of the UN Charter and international law, aims to bring about a just resolution to the conflict. The UN Charter, signed on June 26, 1945, in San Francisco, outlines the organization's primary purpose of maintaining international peace and security.
The Ukrainian leader expressed skepticism towards alternative peace initiatives, particularly the six-point plan jointly proposed by China and Brazil in May 2024. He questioned the motives behind these efforts, suggesting they might be driven by political ambitions rather than a genuine desire for lasting peace.
"The peace formula has already existed for two years, and maybe somebody wants a Nobel Prize for their political biography, for (a) frozen truce, instead of real peace, but the only prizes Putin will give you in return are more suffering and disasters."
Zelenskiy warned that proposing alternative plans could provide Russian President Vladimir Putin with political leverage to prolong the conflict. He emphasized that such initiatives might lead to a temporary lull rather than a definitive end to the war.
The Ukrainian President's criticism extended to the involvement of other nations in these alternative peace efforts. He cautioned against attempts to gain influence at Ukraine's expense, stating, "Everyone must understand, you will not boost your power at Ukraine's expense."
It's worth noting that China, as a permanent member of the UN Security Council, and Brazil, which has been elected to the council 10 times, hold significant positions in international diplomacy. The UN Security Council plays a crucial role in maintaining global peace and security, having conducted over 70 peacekeeping operations since 1948.
Zelenskiy's address took place during the regular session of the UN General Assembly, which meets annually from September to December. The General Assembly, comprising 193 member states, serves as a forum for discussing international issues and making recommendations.
Following his UN appearance, Zelenskiy is scheduled to meet with U.S. President Joe Biden at the White House on September 26, 2024. During this meeting, the Ukrainian leader plans to present a "victory plan," further emphasizing his commitment to his own peace strategy.
The ongoing conflict and diplomatic efforts surrounding it underscore the complex role of the United Nations in international dispute resolution. Since its founding in 1945 after World War II, the UN has been involved in negotiating over 170 peace settlements worldwide.
As the situation continues to evolve, the international community remains focused on finding a path to peace in Ukraine. The UN, with its specialized agencies and peacekeeping capabilities, continues to play a vital role in these efforts, despite the challenges posed by conflicting approaches from various member states.