Ukraine expects to be granted the status of a candidate for membership in the European Union, as this decision will be a demonstration of the unity of European countries and will give our country additional motivation to defend democratic values. This was stated by President Volodymyr Zelenskyy during his online participation in the GLOBSEC International Security Forum.
"We all understand that the issue of membership in the European Union is decided not in a day or in a month. One of the motivations for our people today is the belief that Europe truly considers us equal, strong and powerful. Such motivation is the candidacy for membership in the European Union," said Volodymyr Zelenskyy, answering questions from the moderator.
The Head of State stressed that the unity of the Ukrainian people is an important weapon in resisting the aggressor.
"People's unification depends on motivation. When the whole world looks at us, the whole of Europe, and we are supported - this is a great motivation. If you do not tire of supporting us with your morale, strength, and supporting us politically, the Ukrainian people will not tire of defending these values," the President said.
According to Volodymyr Zelenskyy, despite the statements of the leaders of some European countries, the status of a candidate for EU membership is of special importance for Ukraine.
"For some of the leaders, this is a trifle. For the members of the European Union, this is a passed stage, and for us it is a motivation. Do not forget about such motivations," he said.
The Head of State stressed that one of the results of Russian aggression was the unification of European states around Ukraine, and today it is very important to preserve this unity.
"Today, when the sanctions package is being discussed, when the decisions on the allocation of aid to Ukraine are being discussed, signals about a split, about certain steps of some states are starting to emerge. I believe that this unity cannot be lost, as it cost a lot," Volodymyr Zelenskyy said.