Ukraine's President Volodymyr Zelensky addressed the European Parliament on Tuesday, urging Europe to intensify pressure on Moscow for what he termed a 'just peace'. This speech marked the 1,000th day since the onset of Russia's invasion.
Speaking to EU lawmakers in Brussels via video link, Zelensky expressed gratitude to the 27-nation bloc for its support throughout the conflict, while encouraging further action. 'Putin is determined to win this war and won't stop on his own. The more time he has, the worse the conditions become. Every day is the best moment to push Russia harder,' Zelensky stated.
His address coincided with EU defense ministers meeting nearby, who faced pressure to align with the United States in permitting Kyiv to strike within Russia using donated long-range missiles. 'Putin remains smaller than the united states of Europe. I urge you not to forget this, and do not forget how much Europe is capable of achieving,' Zelensky emphasized to the lawmakers.
The EU commenced accession negotiations with Kyiv in June, charting a long course for the war-ravaged country towards membership. The bloc has provided Ukraine with over 120 billion euros in military, humanitarian, and financial aid since Russia's 2022 invasion.
'We have accomplished much but we must not fear doing even more now,' Zelensky told lawmakers, receiving a standing ovation. 'We must push Russia toward (a) just peace'.
EU officials have reiterated that Brussels will continue to support Ukraine, irrespective of any shifts in Washington's foreign policy following Donald Trump's re-election as US president. 'We will continue to stand with Ukraine today, tomorrow and every day for as long as it takes,' stated EU parliament chief Roberta Metsola, introducing Zelensky.
Trump's return, set to take office in January, has sparked concerns about a diminished US commitment to European security and reduced military support for Kyiv. The outgoing Biden administration recently authorized Kyiv to use American missiles to target military installations within Russia, in response to North Korea's deployment of troops to aid Moscow's war effort.
Source link: https://www.khaleejtimes.com
