Today’s Russian attack on Ukraine is Vladimir Putin’s response to the world’s calls to stop the war, which is why it is crucial to increase pressure on Russia. President Volodymyr Zelenskyy stated this during a coordination online meeting attended by President of Poland Karol Nawrocki, President of Lithuania Gitanas Nausėda, President of Latvia Edgars Rinkēvičs, President of Estonia Alar Karis, and Prime Minister of Denmark Mette Frederiksen.

Continuing the discussions initiated during the President of Ukraine’s meeting with the Chief of the Defense Staff of the United Kingdom, the parties focused on the development of security guarantees, including defense planning.

America is ready to stand with Europe – they underlined it – in providing security guarantees, so Europe must not miss this opportunity – it should define real foundations for joint action.

A clear response of the world to this evil is needed. There are no deadlines that Putin would not break. There are no diplomatic opportunities that would not be ruined because of Russia. Strong steps are needed. I thank everyone who understands this. Sanctions are needed. Tariffs are needed against those who sponsor this war in one way or another.

The President and the Secretary-General discussed the steps needed to stop the killing of people. The Head of State stressed that Ukraine is ready for a meeting at the level of leaders, as only in such a format can all the most critical issues be addressed. However, Russia continues to present new conditions and to pursue its aggression instead.

First Lady of Ukraine Olena Zelenska, together with the team implementing the school nutrition reform, visited three educational institutions in the Cherkasy region where kitchen facilities and canteens were modernized as part of the reform. The visit took place with the participation of Deputy Head of the Presidential Office Viktor Mykyta and Deputy Minister of Education and Science of Ukraine Andrii Stashkiv.

The leaders exchanged views on the current situation and the next diplomatic steps. Volodymyr Zelenskyy noted that Ukraine is ready to engage in the format of leaders, as this is the only effective format. Unfortunately, it is Russia that avoids this and continues its war.