The world is currently experiencing the most “destructive arms race in human history,” Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has warned.
Speaking before the United Nations General Assembly on Wednesday, Zelensky emphasised that “peace depends on all of us,” as he accused Russian President Vladimir Putin of attempting to escalate the war beyond Ukraine’s borders.
"Don't stay silent while Russia keeps dragging this war on, please speak out and condemn it," he urged the 193-member body.
It comes as US President Donald Trump said he believes Ukraine can regain all the land lost since the 2022 Russian invasion in one of the strongest statements of support he has given to the country since the war began.
In a post on Truth Social, Trump wrote: “After getting to know and fully understand the Ukraine/Russia Military and Economic situation and, after seeing the Economic trouble it is causing Russia, I think Ukraine, with the support of the European Union, is in a position to fight and WIN all of Ukraine back in its original form.
“With time, patience, and the financial support of Europe and, in particular, Nato, the original Borders from where this War started, is very much an option. Why not?”
Zelensky called on those present at the UN General Assembly to take responsibility for securing the release of abducted children, hostages, and prisoners of war.
He also referenced the recent assassination attempt on President Trump and the killing of conservative activist Charlie Kirk, highlighting the global proliferation of weapons.
Zelensky warned that weaponry, including drones, is evolving more rapidly than nations can develop systems to defend against it.
"If a nation wants peace, it still has to work on weapons... weapons decide who survives," he said.
"International law doesn't work fully unless you have powerful friends who are truly willing to stand up for it. And even that doesn't work without weapons.
“The world moves too slowly to protect itself,” he added.
“It’s only a matter of time before drones are fighting drones... all by themselves, fully autonomous.”
“We are now living through the most destructive arms race in human history” as a result of artificial intelligence, he added.
Zelensky referenced a “good meeting” with US President Donald Trump and ended his speech with: "Slava Ukraini" which means "Glory to Ukraine".
