During his virtual participation in the European Council meeting, President Volodymyr Zelensky called on partners to further increase support for Ukraine, invest in Ukrainian and domestic weapons production, maintain sanctions against Russia, and make efforts to unblock the negotiation process on Ukraine's accession to the EU.
The Head of State noted that despite Vladimir Putin's promise to stop attacks on the energy sector, Russia launched 171 attack drones last night. The drones attacked infrastructure facilities, and in particular, in Kropyvnytskyi, residential buildings, an Orthodox church and a school were damaged. Four children were among the wounded.
“So, it’s crucial that your support for Ukraine doesn’t decrease but instead continues and grows. And this is especially true for air defense, military aid, and our overall resilience,” the President said.
Zelensky emphasized that Ukraine needs funds for artillery shells. Our country is counting on European support in the amount of at least EUR 5 billion. In addition, it is important to invest in arms production both in Ukraine and in Europe.
He also called on the partners not to reduce the pressure on Russia. He stressed that sanctions must remain in place until Russia begins to withdraw its troops from Ukrainian land and fully compensates for the damage caused by its aggression.
“Ongoing diplomatic efforts do not mean Russia should face less pressure. That’s crucial to reducing the chances of a Russian hoax. And we all know how easily Moscow disregards its promises – one moment they give their word, and a few hours later it means absolutely nothing. That’s why we must keep pushing Russia toward peace. Together with you, of course, with the United States, and with other our partners, we can do this,” the Head of State noted.
The President of Ukraine also spoke about his productive conversation with U.S. President Donald Trump, noting that the Ukrainian and American teams will continue working to achieve a full unconditional ceasefire.
“Putin must stop making unnecessary demands that only prolong the war and must start fulfilling what he promises the world,” Zelensky added.
He also called for efforts to overcome the difficulties with the opening of the first and, accordingly, other negotiating clusters on Ukraine's accession to the EU.
“It’s simply anti-European when one person blocks decisions that are important for the entire continent or that have already been agreed upon,” the President emphasized.
