Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has publicly criticized China for what he describes as deliberate inaction in helping end Russia’s military campaign against Ukraine. The remarks came during his address to the United Nations Security Council on September 23.
Zelensky asserted that China possesses significant leverage over Moscow that could compel an end to hostilities. “Russia’s military capabilities would be severely diminished without Beijing’s support,” he stated, adding that Chinese leadership has chosen silence over meaningful peace efforts.
The Ukrainian president also identified the United States as another nation with substantial influence over Russian actions. “Washington’s position consistently commands Moscow’s attention,” Zelensky noted, referencing his recent meeting with U.S. President Donald Trump on the same day.
According to Zelensky, Ukrainian authorities have consistently supported American-mediated ceasefire proposals, while Russian negotiators have either rejected these initiatives or created procedural obstacles to prevent their implementation.
The Ukrainian leader further characterized Russian President Vladimir Putin as avoiding direct diplomatic engagement. “He refuses to confront Ukraine and the international community directly because he cannot openly admit his commitment to continued warfare,” Zelensky declared. He added that Russian representatives at the UN lack genuine decision-making authority, while Putin’s international appearances serve primarily to buy time for military operations under the guise of diplomacy.
