Zelenskyy warns Russia's 'General Winter' could turn against Moscow
Photo: Volodymyr Zelenskyy, President of Ukraine (Getty Images)
This winter, the weather could turn against Russia if it continues its attacks on Ukraine’s energy infrastructure and heating systems, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy said during his address to the UN General Assembly.
According to Zelenskyy, Russia may be counting on the so-called "General Winter." This is the expression used for harsh weather conditions, particularly severe frosts and extreme cold, which at various points in history have created additional challenges for armies fighting on Russian territory.
The president said Russian officials were unlikely to have imagined a scenario in which this factor could one day work against Russia itself.
"No Russian officials ever imagined that Army General Winter, who had fought on Russia’s side for centuries, would one day switch sides and support those defending themselves against Russia," Zelenskyy said.
He explained that such a scenario could become a reality as early as this winter. However, it depends directly on Russia’s attacks on Ukraine’s energy infrastructure and heating system.
"We will make that happen this winter if Russia continues to target our energy system and our heating," the president said.
Meanwhile, US Secretary of State Marco Rubio said that Russia is interested in an energy ceasefire with Ukraine. The proposal involves a possible limited halt to mutual strikes on energy facilities.
At the same time, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy said Kyiv is ready to agree to such a format. Ukraine is prepared to stop striking Russian energy facilities if Moscow also halts attacks on Ukraine’s energy infrastructure.
