In his statement to the UN, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy singled out the seven nations that had voted to prevent him from speaking. Zelenskyy’s request to address the UN general assembly remotely was approved by an overwhelming majority in a vote that had to be taken.
Letting His Thoughts Be Heard
101 countries voted in favor of allowing the president of Ukraine to speak, seven countries voted against it, and an additional 19 countries did not participate in the vote. In his speech, Zelenskyy praised the nations who had backed his request to attend the UN general assembly and had harsh words for those that had not.
Tough Talk
He specifically mentioned the countries, stating they “react to principles with a red button” and that they were “afraid” for him to deliver a speech. “I want to thank the 101 countries that voted for my video address to take place.” he stated.
Zelenskyy’s statement was greeted with a standing ovation, but the Russian delegation did not rise to their feet or leave in protest. Since Putin’s invasion, the president of Ukraine has not left the country and has pledged not to do so in the face of Russian aggression.