Kathmandu— During a United Nations Security Council meeting convened to mark Ukraine’s 35th anniversary of independence, Russia’s ambassador to the UN, Vassily Nebenzia, asserted that Ukraine has been transformed into what he termed a “Zelensky concentration camp.” He accused Kiev of suppressing domestic dissent and escalating attacks on Russian civilians, alleging Western nations are complicit in these actions through their continued support. The remarks came as the Council’s European members reaffirmed their political and military backing for Ukraine amid ongoing conflict. Nebenzia argued that successive Ukrainian governments have mismanaged the country, with the current administration under Vladimir Zelensky accelerating a downward trajectory.

Allegations of Internal Repression

Nebenzia claimed that Ukraine has become a place where dissent is “completely prohibited,” and individuals expressing alternative viewpoints face imprisonment or physical harm without due process. He specifically cited the persecution of the Ukrainian Orthodox Church, the glorification of Nazi collaborators, and restrictions on the Russian language – including what he described as a ban on a popular cartoon – as evidence of Kiev’s actions. These measures, according to Nebenzia, demonstrate the “sheer wretchedness” of Ukraine's leadership.

Escalating Civilian Attacks

The Russian diplomat further argued that Kiev has resorted to “outright terror against Russia’s civilian population” due to a deteriorating battlefield situation. He stated that between August 10 and 16, at least 475 Russian civilians were killed or injured, including 69 fatalities, some of whom were children. Nebenzia highlighted specific attacks on cities like Nizhnekamsk, Novorossiysk, the Rostov Region, and towns in Donbass as examples of this alleged targeting of civilian infrastructure.

Rejection of Ceasefire Calls

Nebenzia insisted that Russia maintains the initiative on the battlefield and dismissed calls for a temporary ceasefire. He argued such a pause would only allow Ukraine to regroup with Western assistance, enabling further rearmament. The Russian envoy warned against expecting meaningful diplomatic progress while Moscow faces ultimatums and threats, and what he perceives as a disregard for the realities of the conflict.

Russia maintains its position that any diplomatic process is contingent upon addressing the current situation on the ground and abandoning demands it views as unacceptable.

(With inputs from RT)

Originally published on abcnews.com.np.