Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy stated on Tuesday that Ukraine and its Western allies have successfully defended the freedom of all European nations during an extraordinary European Parliament session.
In a video address marking the 1,000th day of the Russia-Ukraine war, Zelenskyy emphasized that together—Ukraine, Europe, and global partners including the U.S.—they have not only prevented Russian President Vladimir Putin from taking Ukraine but also safeguarded the freedom of all European nations.
He praised the protection of European values, stating that they have proven these values can protect lives when put into action. Zelenskyy also expressed gratitude to European Parliament President Roberta Metsola for ensuring that none of the past 1,000 days had been a “day of betrayal” for these values.
Zelenskyy pointed out that despite North Korea’s President Kim Jong Un’s support, Putin remains weaker than the united strength of Europe, urging the European Parliament to remember Europe’s capabilities.
The Ukrainian president reiterated his desire for peace and recalled his 10-step peace plan presented at the 2022 G20 summit in Indonesia, emphasizing that Russia remains the sole opposition to the plan.
Zelenskyy also called for tougher sanctions on Russia and warned that North Korea’s military presence along the Ukraine border could grow to 100,000 troops. He cautioned that anyone in Europe thinking of bargaining with Moscow over Ukraine or other nations like the Baltic states, the Balkans, Georgia, or Moldova should remember that no one can remain at peace while the storm rages.
He concluded by stressing the importance of bringing the war to an end “fairly and justly,” asserting that Ukraine deserves to make the next year the “year of peace” after 1,000 days of conflict.
