Current events

The Head of State informed his interlocutor about Russia's daily attacks on Odesa, its attempts to destroy the city's historic center and port infrastructure.

The interlocutors shared assessments of the current situation in the Black Sea and the risks it poses to global food security.

The states of the Black Sea region, in particular, Ukraine and Türkiye, maintain constructive and substantive relations with each other, and only Russia baselessly seeks to dominate the Black Sea waters. This was stated by President Volodymyr Zelenskyy, who took part in the 14th annual Aspen Security Forum via a video link.

The parties coordinated efforts to restore the operation of the Black Sea Grain Initiative. The President of Ukraine called unblocking the grain corridor an absolute priority.

The President emphasized that Ukraine is ready to continue to be a guarantor of global food security and is interested in developing bilateral relations with Ethiopia in the areas of security, digitization, etc.

The Head of State praised active interaction with USAID and noted the important role of the Agency in consolidating assistance to our country.

Volodymyr Zelenskyy is convinced that such systems as SAMP/T and Patriot can protect Ukraine's port infrastructure. They can be provided by the respective states.

During the meeting, the parties also discussed security and political cooperation, joint steps that could strengthen Ukraine's defense against Russian aggression.

Volodymyr Zelenskyy thanked for the practical assistance provided by JICA in the restoration of Ukraine and for the implementation of projects to support key sectors of the national economy.

President Volodymyr Zelenskyy emphasizes the importance of establishing a direct dialogue between Ukraine and the African continent for an objective perception of events in our country and understanding the consequences of Russian aggression. He made the statement on Monday during an interview with African media.