Head of the Office of the President Andriy Yermak met with European Union Commissioner for Defense and Space Andrius Kubilius, who was appointed to this newly created position in the European Commission on December 1. The Commissioner was accompanied by Katarína Mathernová, Ambassador of the European Union to Ukraine, Simonas Šatūnas, Head of Cabinet of the EU Commissioner for Defense and Space, and Ramūnas Stanionis, Member of Cabinet of the EU Commissioner for Defense and Space.
The Ukrainian side was also represented at the meeting by Dariia Zarivna and Oleksandr Bevz, Advisors to the Head of the Office of the President of Ukraine.
“We know you well and we are thankful for everything you have done and continue to do for Ukraine. I am sure that in this position you will keep supporting our country until the end of this war. And also, on our way to becoming a full-fledged member of the EU,” Andriy Yermak emphasized.
He added that a clear and defined European policy to support Ukraine and ensure collective security is one of the key factors in achieving a just peace.
During the meeting, the parties discussed the situation on the battlefield, the priority needs of the Ukrainian Defense Forces, and the strengthening of Ukraine's air defense.
The Head of the Presidential Office spoke about his recent meetings with representatives of the current and future U.S. Presidential Administrations. Andriy Yermak emphasized that fruitful cooperation between European countries and the United States is crucial now, especially in supporting Ukraine in its struggle against Russian aggression.
“I believe that we have every chance to end this war with a just peace,” the Head of the Presidential Office said.
In addition, Andriy Yermak and Andrius Kubilius discussed effective ways to counter Russian propaganda. After all, it affects, among other things, the perception of Russia's aggressive war against Ukraine in Europe and the world.
The European Commissioner noted that Ukraine is defending not only itself but the entire European continent.
“We all want peace to come as soon as possible. But, of course, we are looking for ways to achieve peace through strength,” Andrius Kubilius stressed.