On September 24, 2026, during the general debates of the UN General Assembly in New York, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky delivered an important address, highlighting Russia's use of citizens from 47 countries in its war.
Citizens of 47 Countries on the Battlefield
Zelensky pointed out that among the prisoners of war captured by Russia are individuals from various countries, including:
- Ghana
- Nepal
- Tajikistan
- India
- Yemen
- Kenya
- Zimbabwe
- Cuba
- Belarus
- Sudan
- South Africa
These citizens ended up in Russia through deception and trickery, emphasizing the global nature of the conflict and its impact on other nations.
Call to Action
The President of Ukraine urged the international community not to allow Vladimir Putin to involve other states in the war, stressing that this could lead to even greater casualties among civilians. He called for limiting Russia's capabilities to wage war, specifically:
- restricting its financial resources
- reducing its operational space
- countering its aggressive actions
Importance of International Support
Zelensky also thanked everyone who supports Ukraine, its people, and children during this challenging time. He urged the global community to be proactive in protecting life and security, emphasizing the importance of being the first to say: "We guaranteed safety." This address served as a crucial signal for the international community about the need for unity in countering aggression.