High-Level Meeting of the International Coalition for the Return of Ukrainian Children on the margins of the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA 80)

Volodymyr Zelenskyy underlined that strengthening Ukraine’s and partners’ air defenses through a joint system against missiles and drones would force Russia to stop its attacks from the sky and look for a truce on the ground.

Behind every international institution, there must be real strength to enforce decisions. This is true for the Security Council and for the UN as a whole. If you stand together for ending this war, even Russia will have to obey. And if some of you act, while others delay, the war goes on.

The President emphasized that the UN General Assembly’s attention to the situation in Ukraine’s occupied territories must remain on the agenda until the occupation is fully ended. Annalena Baerbock firmly reaffirmed her full support for Ukraine’s sovereignty and territorial integrity.

The First Lady noted that to ensure students can safely study offline in frontline regions, schools in Ukraine are being built in bomb shelters. In addition, the Olena Zelenska Foundation is equipping shelters in schools and kindergartens across the country. Despite the war, the school nutrition reform continues, and “Lessons of Happiness” are being introduced within the All-Ukrainian Mental Health Program “How Are You?”

The Head of State expressed gratitude for Liechtenstein’s humanitarian assistance to Ukraine. He emphasized that support for the energy sector is especially critical for Ukrainians during the winter months.

The leaders discussed several promising ideas to advance peace. Ukraine expects them to yield prompt results.