Marco Rubio Meets Russia's Lavrov On Sidelines Of UN General Assembly

US Secretary of State Marco Rubio engaged in discussions with Russia's Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov on Wednesday during the 80th Session of the United Nations General Assembly.

New York:

During the High-Level Week of the 80th United Nations General Assembly (UNGA), US Secretary of State Marco Rubio conducted a meeting with Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov on the sidelines of the event.

The Russian foreign ministry confirmed on Wednesday: "Russia's Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov and US Secretary of State @marcorubio hold a meeting on the sidelines of the High-Level Week of the 80th Session of the UN General Assembly📍 New York, September 24#RussiaUS #UNGA80"

Currently, the annual General Debate of the UNGA is taking place, with the second day featuring addresses from significant world leaders.

Wednesday's program included speeches from Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy, Iran's Masoud Pezeshkian, Argentina's Javier Milei, and Syria's interim leader Ahmed al-Sharaa.

It's noteworthy that Al-Sharaa's appearance marked the first address by a Syrian leader to the General Assembly in nearly six decades.

During his speech, President Zelenskyy emphasized the sobering reality that numerous nations in attendance are "at war or just came out of war, or are trying to stop one or openly getting ready for one." He indicated that those present bear the responsibility of determining whether Russia's aggression in Ukraine will be terminated.

"Yesterday, we had a good meeting with President Trump, and I also spoke with many other strong leaders, and together, we can change a lot.... I appreciate the support we are receiving," Zelenskyy stated.

He underscored that while the G7 and G20 have significant influence, the ultimate responsibility rests with the entire United Nations membership.

"Yes, much depends on the G7 and G20, but in the end, this depends on all of us, on the United Nations. So don't stay silent while Russia keeps dragging this war on. Please speak out and condemn it. Please join us in defending life and international law, and order. People are waiting for action," he urged.

Zelenskyy also displayed clear frustration regarding the structure of the UN Security Council, where Russia maintains permanent membership with veto power.

"International law doesn't work fully, unless you have powerful friends who are truly willing to stand up for it," he added.

Russia has consistently used its veto power to block resolutions concerning the Ukraine conflict and Sudan's humanitarian crisis. Historically, Moscow and its predecessor, the Soviet Union, have employed the veto more frequently than any other permanent member of the UN Security Council.