“Sanctions against Russia remain one of the most effective tools for limiting its aggression. What’s needed now is a truly strong 18th package of EU sanctions against Russia,” said Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy in an address to the participants of the European Council session on June 26.
Thank you so much, António, dear President Costa! Ursula, Madam President! Dear friends, dear leaders!
It’s good to see you all again, and thank you for inviting us to take part in this meeting of the European Council.
So, first of all, thank you to everyone who supports our people and our defense against Russian attacks. It’s important not to forget that the war that Russia brought to Europe is still ongoing. And in Moscow, there are still plans to expand this pressure against us in Ukraine, and also against European countries and the EU itself.
This is Putin’s dream – to see a fragmented Europe, where marginal voices gain influence and speak not for unity, but for division. That’s why Russia supports anyone – and no matter how extreme – who tries to weaken Europe from the inside. Most of you see this threat clearly and are standing against it. And as a result, today’s Europe is much stronger than it was 5 years ago. That is what unity gives us.
The world is clearly unstable. But the EU remains a strong global force that can protect – and does protect – European values and interests. It also plays a key role in making sure the war that Russia is waging doesn’t spread further, and in moving things toward peace. Without Europe, this would not be possible. So I thank you for your help. Ukraine is ready for a just peace. Ukraine is ready for a ceasefire. It is Russia that blocks everything. And this is why pressure must increase.
Full text of the address: Office of the President of Ukraine
Latest news
#DiasporaNews
