By providing weapons to Ukraine, the countries of the European Union, in particular Italy, are strengthening the defense capabilities of the Ukrainian army and the ability of our state to oust the aggressor from its land. This was stated by President Volodymyr Zelenskyy at the opening of the ISPI Global Policy Forum (Milan, Italy).
"Italy, you do not support the offensive of the Ukrainian army, you support the defense capabilities of our state. Wherever we attack is our land. We just want to drive the Russian army out of our independent land. We do not cross borders, we do not kill civilians, citizens of the Russian Federation, despite their position on this war. We are an adequate nation that strives for independence. Therefore, I urge you to continue to support us," the President said, answering questions from Forum participants.
Volodymyr Zelenskyy noted that Ukrainians simply want to live in their country within internationally recognized borders, they do not need foreign territories.
"And we defend what is ours. We are very motivated people. In addition to our independence, home and family, we have values. We defend the values we share with Europeans - and this is the second motivation. And third, we want to show everyone that Ukraine is not afraid of even the world's second army. We show the example of an independent state and the example of the struggle of an independent people," the President said.
The Head of State noted that the protection of common European values is a unifying factor for Ukrainians.
"The fact that we are heading to the European Union and may receive EU candidate status this week will only strengthen our forces," he said.
Volodymyr Zelenskyy thanked the European Union countries that are fighting against Russia politically, with sanctions, and supporting the Ukrainian army with weapons.
According to the President, Ukraine is equal to other EU countries, and the European Union should do for it what it is doing now for its member states.
"And since we are today an outpost of protection of these values, probably it is necessary to do a little more for us than for other countries. Because it is more difficult for us now," Volodymyr Zelenskyy added.