Biden Announces Support for Ukrainian Recovery and Reconstruction Efforts

President Joe Biden is set to announce a ‘declaration of support’ for Ukraine’s recovery and reconstruction amidst the ongoing conflict with Russia. This significant event is scheduled to take place on Wednesday at 3:30 p.m. EDT.

During his speech at the U.N. General Assembly, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy called on global leaders to maintain their support for Ukraine. He emphasized the need for more than just a temporary ceasefire, advocating for a comprehensive and just peace as the war extends beyond two years.

Zelenskyy firmly stated that there is no substitute for the peace formula he outlined two years ago. This plan includes the removal of all Russian forces from Ukrainian territory, accountability for war crimes, and the safe release of prisoners of war and deportees. Additionally, it covers aspects of nuclear safety, energy security, and food security.

He warned that any attempts to find an alternative approach to peace would only result in a temporary halt to hostilities rather than a true end to the conflict. “Do not divide the world. Be united nations,” he urged, insisting that unity among nations is essential for achieving lasting peace.

At the assembly, Russia had not yet delivered its address. Low-ranking diplomats were seen occupying Russia’s seats during Zelenskyy’s critical speech. Notably, President Vladimir Putin chose not to attend the General Assembly this year. Instead, Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov is scheduled to represent Russia and deliver the country’s address this coming Saturday.

In a reaction to Zelenskyy’s statements made the previous day regarding the necessity of forcibly bringing Russia to peace, Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov condemned the comments. Peskov described Zelenskyy’s viewpoint as “a fatal mistake” and “a profound misconception,” which he claimed would result in repercussions for Ukraine.

In the past two years, the war in Ukraine has taken center stage during the U.N. General Assembly sessions. However, this year, the conflict in Gaza between Israel and Hamas, along with tensions escalating along the Israeli-Lebanese border, has gained significant media attention.

The ongoing war between Ukraine and Russia has become a significant and complex military engagement, with both sides engaged in intense combat along a formidable 1,000-kilometer (600-mile) front line.

This conflict ignited in February 2022, when Russia launched an invasion under the pretext of protecting Russian-speaking individuals within Ukraine.