President Volodymyr Zelenskyy emphasizes the importance of approving the transfer of modern tanks to Ukraine as soon as possible, as every minute of delay costs the lives of Ukrainian warriors. He stated this during a meeting with media representatives following the negotiations with President of the European Council Charles Michel in Kyiv.
Answering journalists' questions about the willingness of partners to support Ukraine, Volodymyr Zelenskyy noted the signal from the United States to form a large defense assistance package worth about $2.5 billion.
"We expect all partners to support us accordingly," he said.
The President noted that he has positive expectations for the next meeting of the international group on Ukraine's defense in the Ramstein format, scheduled for January 20.
"We were preparing for Ramstein in a big way. We had several dozen conversations. Low bow to some states, as they give everything they have to ensure that we preserve what’s ours, including our people," Volodymyr Zelenskyy said.
According to the Head of State, the issue of providing tanks to Ukraine is still relevant, sensitive and depends on many factors.
"The courage of our military and motivation of the Ukrainian people are not enough against thousands of tanks of the Russian Federation. We need appropriate weapons: we need to have either a large number of artillery systems or an appropriate, adequate number of tanks," the President emphasized.
He said that many countries have expressed their readiness to provide Ukraine with tanks, but they are waiting for the relevant documents from the state, which has to license the supply of this equipment.
"Poland is ready, just as Finland, Portugal, Spain and many other countries willing to provide even a small number of tanks they have in service. And they were ready to do so earlier. We are all waiting for the consent of the country that issues the relevant licenses," the Head of State explained.
Volodymyr Zelenskyy emphasized that every minute of delay in the provision of appropriate weapons is the life of Ukrainian warriors.
"Speed and time are important. The sooner we can de-occupy our territory, the sooner we can be more powerful, the more citizens our country will save," he said.
In addition, the President noted that Ukraine also relies on its own strength and ensures appropriate production.
The Head of State also emphasized the importance of the World Economic Forum in Davos as a platform where Ukraine seeks support for the protection of common European values.
"We are promoting the Peace Formula that I spoke about, that the First Lady spoke about. We are also promoting urgent solutions that we need and already receive help with. In particular, energy security - quick solutions on energy decentralization. The humanitarian aspect is also very important," the President of Ukraine said.
According to him, members of the Ukrainian delegation in Davos held a number of meetings on digitization and rapid restoration of infrastructure after Russia's missile strikes.
"Davos, as well as other platforms that influence decisions, are definitely a priority for our country right now. The outcome on the battlefield depends on these minutes. And I believe that we have been heard, but we will see it from the results - support with specific military packages for the Ukrainian army," Volodymyr Zelenskyy said.
