Shangri-La Dialogue: in Singapore, Zelensky calls on Asia to join Ukraine peace summit

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky on Sunday called on Asian countries to join a coming Swiss-led peace summit, stressing that “time is running out” and the support of the region was “much needed”.

“I invite your region, your leaders, countries to join so that your people are involved in these global affairs and by uniting against one war,” Zelensky said in a passionate plea to delegates.

“Time is running out, and the children are growing up in the Putin-land where they are taught to hate their homeland,” he said.

Singapore Defence Minister Ng Eng Hen, who shared the stage with Zelensky, did not say whether his country’s leaders would attend, but did note Singapore had condemned the invasion and provided Ukraine with military ambulances.

“We stand with you, and I think your appearance at this Shangri-La Dialogue is the epitome of what we are all hoping for, a rules-based order that guarantees the security and survival of large nations and small,” he said.

“More than 100 countries and international organisations have confirmed their participation in the summit,” Zelensky said, adding that topics to be discussed include nuclear security, food security and the release of prisoners of war.

It remains unclear which nations will send delegates to the summit.

In a press conference after his speech at Sunday’s forum, Zelensky reiterated the call to Asian countries to support Ukraine by joining the peace summit.

“We need the support of Asian countries. It is much needed… We want Asia to know what is going on in Ukraine, Asia to support the end of the war. We want Asian leaders to attend the peace summit,” he said.

While many Asian countries did not support Ukraine through the supply of weapons, Ukraine would “always ask first and