Ukraine’s Zelenskyy calls for sustained pressure to end ‘Putin’s crazy war’

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky warned Russia at the United Nations that his nation would retaliate and make the upcoming winter harsh for Moscow if they fail to reach an agreement on a truce for energy attacks before the cold season arrives. Both Ukraine and its allies are striving to achieve limited agreements on energy infrastructure and Black Sea shipping before winter, to prevent further Russian strikes on power and heating facilities.

Meanwhile, Russia remains largely uninterested in broader negotiations to end the conflict. Zelensky told the UN General Assembly that Ukrainians anticipate a severe winter, but in response, they will make it equally painful for Russia. Despite Russia possessing a larger arsenal of missiles, Ukraine has developed thousands of long-range drones to retaliate against Russian warehouses, ports, and oil refineries.

Zelensky emphasized the urgency of de-escalation steps before winter, urging for more robust diplomacy. Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov met with US Secretary of State Marco Rubio, where both sides expressed interest in a limited ceasefire involving grain and energy-related targets. However, there are no signs of a change in Russia's stance.

During a Security Council session, Lavrov reiterated Russia's commitment to its "special military operation" and dismissed any idea of a temporary cessation of hostilities. He accused Europe of merely seeking a pause to arm the Ukrainian regime. Western leaders, including Britain, France, and Denmark, condemned Russia's actions at the UN, warning of escalating tensions and increased civilian casualties.

Zelensky specifically criticized Russian President Vladimir Putin, referring to him as "patient zero" for spreading the idea of war. At a "Crimean Platform" summit, Zelensky proposed a maritime truce in the Black Sea, contingent on Russia taking concrete steps towards de-escalation. Global wheat importers in Asia, the Middle East, and Africa are struggling to secure supplies due to strained Black Sea shipping routes, and global wheat prices have skyrocketed.