Volodymyr Zelenskyy Urges Continued EU Support on 1,000th Day of Conflict

Brussels – Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy addressed the European Parliament, reinforcing his calls for ongoing support from the European Union. 

In his speech, Zelenskyy expressed Ukraine’s deep gratitude for the EU’s continued assistance and underscored the need to maintain and expand sanctions against Russia. Marking the significant milestone of 1,000 days since the conflict escalated, he urged European leaders to enhance sanctions against Moscow, particularly focusing on curbing oil exports that fund Russia’s war efforts. “For a thousand days, it has been critically important to stop Russia’s financing of the war through oil revenues,” Zelenskyy stated, highlighting that sanctions remain “vital” to weakening Russia’s operational capabilities.

He further expressed concern over the approaching winter, predicting an increase in Russian strikes on Ukraine’s energy infrastructure, which could lead to widespread power blackouts and further civilian displacements. Pointing to previous assaults that left thousands without heating during freezing temperatures, Zelenskyy called on the EU to strengthen its support to counteract the impending humanitarian crises. “Russia’s pressure intensifies every day,” he warned, urging Europe to “do everything in its power to end this war.”

How can Europe secure long-term peace and stability for Ukraine?

MEP blank” rel=”noopener”>Manfred Weber, leader of the European People’s Party (EPP) in the European Parliament, responded with strong backing for Ukraine, advocating for long-term strategies to ensure peace in Europe. He proposed Ukraine’s integration into NATO, arguing that such a move would prevent future Russian aggression. “Russia will not change,” Weber declared, emphasizing that bold actions are necessary for sustained security across Europe. He explained that NATO membership would act as a powerful deterrent to Russia’s territorial ambitions, with the Alliance’s collective defence principle offering a vital shield.

Weber also recommended supplying Ukraine with advanced German Taurus missiles, which would enable precision strikes on Russian military targets. This suggestion aligns with a recent commitment from the United States to provide Ukraine with long-range missiles, a decision Weber said is critical to strengthening Ukraine’s defence posture. “Yes, we stand with Ukraine. And yes, we will win,” he concluded confidently, echoing the sentiment shared by many MEPs.