Speeches

Tomorrow, I have the European Council meeting in my schedule, at the level of EU leaders. Among other topics, I will specifically discuss this: sanctions against Russia need to be expanded and strengthened.

I want to say separately to all our people in Crimea, in Sevastopol, in all the occupied areas of the South and East of our state, in the currently occupied areas. All of you feel that the Russian presence on our land is not permanent. Ukraine will reclaim its territory and its people. We will not leave anyone to the occupiers.

Now, by working together, we can combine the best qualities of our nations and jointly – Ukraine and Germany – offer a chance for our Europe to grow.

Russia's attempts to control Crimea are not just about land or a military foothold that Moscow needed in the Black Sea to destabilize neighboring regions. It's about the people who need to be saved from all forms of repression.

For Ukraine, this is a top priority – to be ready for a political decision to start negotiations on EU membership this year.

I held a meeting regarding the international events and negotiations being prepared by our state for the near future. Tomorrow, in particular, the Crimea Platform, its parliamentary dimension.

Terrorists will not break the Ukrainian will to defend and protect own state, own independence by any means. The readiness of our people to work for their country, for their Ukraine.

Thank you to each and every one who is currently fighting, in combat positions, and at their posts!

I am grateful to all our guys who are holding their ground and destroying the occupier day after day.

Ukrainians know how important strong unity is in defending against terror, against aggression. Unity here in our country. Unity in partner countries, particularly in America. Unity of the world.