President Volodymyr Zelensky of Ukraine told the UN Security Council on Tuesday that “Russia can only be forced into peace” and urged that the Russia-Ukraine war not be overlooked as the world turned its attention to wars in Gaza, Sudan and Myanmar.

“Russia is committing an international crime,” Zelensky said in a short but impassioned speech. “This war can’t simply fade away, this war can’t be calmed by talks. Actions are needed. Russia can only be forced into peace.”

Zelensky also told the council’s 15 members that Ukraine had obtained information that Russia was planning to attack its three nuclear plants. “We have proof of this, if Russia is ready to go that far, it means nothing you value matters to Moscow,” he said.

Zelensky said he had put together a new victory plan in the almost three-year-old war based on the principles and values of the UN charter, but did not elaborate on its details other than to say that he was organizing a peace conference. He added that he would invite all countries to the conference, including China, Russia’s most powerful partner, and India, which has said it is a neutral player in the war but is helping to sustain Russia’s economy with large oil purchases.

Zelensky was speaking ahead of meetings this week, during which he plans to present his “victory plan” to President Biden and other US officials. So far, he has withheld details of the plan from the public. Zelensky has also called for the United States and other allies to permit Ukraine to use long-range missiles provided by the West to strike deep into Russia.

Secretary general António Guterres briefed the Council, telling diplomats that it was past time to end the war in Ukraine, which has led to catastrophic civilian suffering and spill over consequences, such as a rise in grain and energy prices and the displacement of millions.

New York Times News Service