The 81st UN General Assembly, taking place from September 22-28, 2026, is currently in session, with discussions focusing on various global issues. This meeting marks the first since Russia's invasion of Ukraine in February 2022. The debate has concluded for the day and will resume for its final session on Monday.
German Foreign Minister Johann Wadephul addressed the assembly, warning about the threats posed by artificial intelligence and calling for urgent reforms within the UN. He criticized Russia for its actions in Ukraine, stating that the war targets the lives of innocent civilians and threatens the European peace order. Wadephul described his recent meeting with Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov as an "intense conversation" that underscored the significant disagreements between the two nations.
Lavrov, however, dismissed the meeting as unnecessary, asserting that no new information was presented. He accused Germany and other European nations of obstructing peace talks aimed at resolving the conflict.
In addition to discussions about Ukraine, foreign ministers from India and Saudi Arabia emphasized the need for de-escalation in the Middle East and the protection of maritime navigation. The ongoing conflict is expected to be a key topic during the UAE's address on Monday.
Wadephul reiterated Germany's commitment to supporting Ukraine, stating that the country is the largest supporter of Ukraine's defense against Russian aggression. He called on all member states to encourage Russia to engage in negotiations rather than resorting to violence.
The assembly also featured remarks from India's Minister for External Affairs, Subrahmanyam Jaishankar, who urged restraint in conflicts affecting global navigation, and Saudi Arabia's Foreign Minister, Prince Faisal bin Farhan al Saud, who condemned Iranian attacks and called for the restoration of peace in the region.
Lavrov, in his address, reiterated Russia's willingness to contribute to stabilizing the Gulf region and accused European countries of impeding peace efforts in the Ukraine conflict. He also noted that the unprovoked invasion of Ukraine would soon mark its fifth anniversary.
The meeting between Wadephul and Lavrov was the first of its kind since early 2022 and occurred amid heightened tensions, particularly following accusations of a drone attack orchestrated by Russia on Leipzig airport. Both countries have recently closed each other's consulates in response to escalating diplomatic disputes.
Moldovan Prime Minister Vasile Tofan also spoke at the assembly, advocating for small nations to serve as regulatory sandboxes for new technologies, highlighting the rapid pace of technological advancement, particularly in artificial intelligence.