President Volodymyr Zelenskyy expressed belief that Belarus has no desire to join the war against Ukraine unleashed by Russia, however the Ukrainian defense forces are preparing for any security challenges. He said this during a conversation with media representatives following a meeting with President of Finland Sauli Niinistö in Kyiv.
"We were not going to and are not going to attack Belarus. This is the main signal from the entire Ukrainian people to the Belarusian people. It is very important for us that Belarus does not lose its independence and does not join this disgraceful war despite anyone’s influence," Volodymyr Zelenskyy said, answering journalists' questions.
The President of Ukraine is convinced that the majority of Belarusian citizens and servicemen are unwilling to use weapons against the Ukrainian people. At the same time, the Head of State does not rule out such a challenge given the presence of Russian troops in Belarus.
"Our task for the military is to prepare for any challenges. This is not easy, so we need the help of our partners, because our territory is very large. That is why we have restrictions on the amount of ammunition. Therefore, we have to prepare for any challenges," he said.
Volodymyr Zelenskyy thanked Finland for its assistance to Ukraine in the security sphere. The Head of State also expressed hope that Finland would support Ukraine on its path to NATO membership.
"Today we talked about the creation of a separate platform to strengthen Ukraine with armored vehicles, including tanks. I am very pleased that Finland will take its appropriate place there," the Head of State said.
