Ukraine will do everything necessary to become strong in the coming year and then be ready for diplomacy. President Volodymyr Zelenskyy stated this in Brussels following his meeting with leaders, heads of government, and other representatives of European countries.
The meeting was attended by Federal Chancellor of Germany Olaf Scholz, President of the Council of Ministers of Italy Giorgia Meloni, Prime Minister of Denmark Mette Frederiksen, Prime Minister of the Netherlands Dick Schoof, President of Poland Andrzej Duda, NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte, President of the European Council António Costa, President of the European Commission Ursula von der Leyen, Secretary of State for Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Affairs David Lammy, and Minister for Europe and Foreign Affairs of France Jean-Noël Barrot.
The President expressed his gratitude to all those present for their unwavering and comprehensive support of Ukraine in its fight against Russian aggression.
The primary focus of the discussion was how to strengthen Ukraine and bolster its positions both on the battlefield and in diplomacy.
"We are doing everything to ensure that Ukraine is strong so that no one imposes anything on us, and I believe we are succeeding," said Volodymyr Zelenskyy.
The discussions included enhancing Ukraine’s air defense to protect cities and critical infrastructure.
"There are many topics of conversation, and they are important. Some are sensitive: winter, energy sector – we must ensure its protection. Right now, we urgently need 19 air defense systems to shield distribution substations, which are targeted daily by the Russian Federation," the President noted.
Special attention was given to equipping Ukrainian brigades based on France’s example and investing in Ukrainian weapons production following Denmark’s model. The President urged other partners to join these initiatives.
“Ukraine's strong position means strengthening our army and our economy. Regarding the economy, I think our partners have made important steps in terms of 50 billion, and we have also received 20 billion from the United States. We are financially secured for the next year. I believe this also strengthens Ukraine,” the Head of State added.
Volodymyr Zelenskyy thanked Italy and the United Kingdom for their upcoming support packages, which Giorgia Meloni and David Lammy announced during the meeting.
