By Gbenga Oresanya, he is a beyond-border journalist
Volodymyr Zelenskyy has appealed to global leaders to intervene to prevent Russia from leading the world through “the most destructive arms race in human history”, warning that the combination of drone technology and artificial intelligence would end in catastrophe
Speaking at the United Nations General Assembly on Wednesday, September 24, 2025, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy appealed to the international community to intervene and stop Russia, warning that the world is now in “the most destructive arms race in human history.”
Zelenskyy’s address went beyond a traditional plea for military aid. He argued that Russia’s invasion of Ukraine has accelerated a new kind of arms race, one driven by artificial intelligence (AI) and autonomous drones. He warned that this technology is evolving faster than the world’s ability to defend itself, and if left unchecked, could lead to a global catastrophe.
The Threat: Zelenskyy highlighted the widespread use of inexpensive, mass-produced drones in the war, noting they can create “death zones” and are becoming accessible to a wide range of actors, including terrorist groups.
The Catastrophe: He painted a chilling picture of a future where AI-powered drones operate with full autonomy, fighting other drones and attacking critical infrastructure without human control. He stressed that it is only a matter of time before a “simple drone” carries a nuclear warhead.
Zelenskyy called for immediate global rules on the use of AI in weaponry, stating that this is “just as urgent as preventing the spread of nuclear weapons.”
The Ukrainian president asserted that international institutions, including the UN, have proven “too weak” to stop wars in Ukraine, Gaza, and Sudan. He told world leaders that “weapons decide who survives“ and that the only real security guarantees are “friends and weapons.”
He urged nations to take decisive action, arguing that “stopping Russia now is cheaper“ than the long-term costs of building underground defenses, protecting ports, and living in a world where AI-powered drones pose a constant threat. He called on all countries to condemn Russia’s aggression and join Ukraine’s coalition to restore international law and order.
Zelenskyy’s impassioned speech came a day after he met with U.S. President Donald Trump, who had seemingly shifted his stance on the war by voicing support for Ukraine and criticizing Russian President Vladimir Putin.
