It is impossible to talk about the development of Ukraine without mentioning the topic of Donbas and Crimea. This was announced during a conference on reforms in Ukraine held in Toronto by President of Ukraine Volodymyr Zelenskyy.
"The return of our territories, the captives, the achievement of peace - this is the most important thing. This is the first thing that a citizen-oriented state should provide," the Head of State said.
"And we can’t do without your support here," he said, addressing the participants of the conference.
According to him, Ukraine faces two big challenges. The first one is economic. According to preliminary estimates, more than 10 billion euros are needed to restore Donbas.
"In the autumn, we will hold a forum in Mariupol, and we invite foreign investors interested in financing infrastructure and humanitarian projects in Donbas," the Head of State said.
The second challenge is informational. The President emphasized that Ukraine should return not only its territories, but also its people.
"They do not have to lose contact with Ukraine. These are our citizens. And today they are scared. They have a Ukrainian passport, they are given "passports" of "LPR" and "DPR", and now they are offered Russian ones as well. Scared, because they are trying to confuse them with the question "Who are we?" They are Ukrainians. Whatever language they may speak. And we must realize it all over the country if we really want their return. Obviously, this is the most difficult issue facing Ukraine. We shall always say: Donbas and Crimea are Ukraine," he said.
According to Volodymyr Zelenskyy, the fact that Donbas and Crimea are Ukraine should finally be heard and understood by Russia's leadership.
"The whole world must say it loud. Without getting tired of it. This is necessary not only for Ukraine, but also for you. Because the return of Crimea and peace in Donbas is a guarantee of peace both in Europe and in the world. Remember this when you will discuss the issue of sanctions the next time," the Head of State said, addressing the participants of the conference.
