Zelensky at UN urges tougher Russia measures, calls Putin 'Patient Zero' of war

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky called on the international community to impose stricter measures against Russia during the UN General Assembly, arguing that Moscow's trade revenues enable the continuation of the war and questioning Putin's commitment to peace. Zelensky urged nations to restrict trade with Russia, stating that any money given to Russia through commerce prolongs the conflict. He described Putin as "Patient Zero" of the war, saying this source of aggression must be stopped, and noted Russia has used 63,000 attack drones against Ukraine this year alone. Meanwhile, US Secretary of State Marco Rubio reported both sides showed interest in a partial agreement to halt attacks on grain shipments and energy facilities, while Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov said Russia is ready to negotiate lasting peace but will not pause its attacks.