President of Ukraine Volodymyr Zelenskyy held a meeting with U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken, visiting our country.
The Head of State said that Blinken is visiting Ukraine for the third time since the beginning of the full-scale Russian invasion. Zelenskyy called this visit an important manifestation of the unwavering support of our country and its citizens by the United States in the fight against the aggressor.
"This is a difficult challenge, a difficult period for our society, and I highly appreciate the visits of U.S. partners. I am very grateful to you, President Biden and the entire American people for supporting Ukraine," Zelenskyy said.
He provided the interlocutor with detailed information about the situation on the front, as well as urgent defense needs of the Ukrainian defenders, including long-range weapons, artillery and armored vehicles.
In this regard, the leadership position of the United States in providing comprehensive military, financial and humanitarian support was noted.
Given the continued missile terror from Russia, the need to strengthen Ukraine's capabilities in missile defense was emphasized, as the creation of a reliable air shield is the key to economic development and the preservation of the lives of Ukrainians.
The Head of State confirmed the invitation to the American side to participate in the Defense Industries Forum, scheduled for this autumn.
"I am extremely grateful that the United States is a leader in defense matters, provides consolidated international support in giving the necessary weapons. The Ukrainian people, the Armed Forces fully understand this and are sincerely grateful for it," he said.
Zelenskyy said that the assistance of the United States in the energy sector is important for Ukraine, especially on the eve of the winter period.
During the meeting, further ways of implementing the Ukrainian Peace Formula were discussed in detail.
The President expressed gratitude for the role of the United States in adopting the G7 declaration on support of Ukraine and noted the beginning of negotiations with the United States on preparing a draft bilateral agreement.
Attention was paid to the preparation for key international events, and the importance of the third Summit of First Ladies and Gentlemen in Kyiv was noted.