Russia-Ukraine War Moves to UN as Moscow Rejects Kyiv's Calls

The Russia-Ukraine war was informally transferred to the UN General Assembly in New York, where Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky described potential de-escalation steps before winter as significant, while Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov clarified Moscow will not pause its "special military operation." Zelensky signaled resistance to Moscow, stating Kyiv will respond to every Russian attack to make the war costly for Russia. He warned the conflict could expand to other countries, including Moldova and Poland, and argued that limiting Russia's financing and production is the only way to stop President Vladimir Putin. He also reiterated calls for strengthening Ukrainian air defense. Lavrov rejected a pause, claiming Europe wants a ceasefire to rearm Ukraine. In contrast, US NATO Ambassador Matthew Whitaker said Russia does not seek conflict with NATO. Separately, US Secretary of State Marco Rubio confirmed Washington invited Putin to the December G20 summit.