Zelenskyy urges world leaders to cut off money to Russia | NHK WORLD-JAPAN News

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has stressed to world leaders the importance of cutting off revenue for Russia's aggression against Ukraine.

Zelenskyy addressed the United Nations General Assembly in New York on Wednesday.

He referred to his country's intensifying long-range attacks on oil refineries and other targets in Russia.

Zelenskyy said, "When someone gives Russia more money through trade, they give this war more time." He went on to say that is "why we are burning Russia's revenues ourselves."

He acknowledged that Ukraine is struggling to deal with Moscow's attacks using ballistic missiles and jet-powered drones. Zelenskyy said the assaults create an air threat every hour, disrupt people's lives and prevent children from studying at school.

The Ukrainian leader emphasized that his country will work with partners to enhance its air defense capabilities. He also appealed for continued cooperation and support.

He said: "Ukrainians did not choose this war. We choose not to die, not to lose our country, our families, not to lose our independence, our freedom, and we are defending ourselves."

Referring to North Korea, Zelenskyy pointed out that Pyongyang sends soldiers to support Russian forces and gets something in return from Moscow.

He said, "North Korea's neighbors and countries across Asia have probably already noticed its improved ballistic missiles and Pyongyang's much greater drone capabilities."

Zelenskyy also disclosed that Ukraine sent two North Korean prisoners of war to the Republic of Korea.