"I generally believe that this is a kind of surprise. This concerns not only the UN but also many other countries," said Zelensky.
He emphasized that one cannot be neutral, as that would mean being on Russia's side.
"Neutrality only serves the Russian Federation. There cannot be neutrality between an aggressor and a victim; this is, in my opinion, a hidden support for Russia. And I believe that those who were present [at the BRICS summit] and spoke of their neutrality, claiming they want to help resolve this conflict, appear more pro-Russian and therefore not in favor of peace," he stated.
Zelensky noted that it is Russia that started this war and continues it, which means it desires this conflict. In his view, a "neutral position" in this war supports the Russian side, all victims, torture, child deportations, and so on.