I wish you health!
Today’s summary. There was a meeting with the negotiating team regarding all the outcomes of communication with the American team. The guys stay in contact essentially every day, and a lot has already been done. We are coordinating with the envoys of President Trump on the schedule of meetings – our documents are, in many respects, already prepared for signing. We expect that the Davos format this year will be sufficiently productive specifically in terms of our relations with partners and our recovery after Russian strikes. Now it is necessary for government officials to promptly analyze each of the documents on economic agreements so that all of Ukraine’s interests are fully taken into account. We are also working to create effective financing mechanisms for recovery – fair for Ukraine. Thank you to everyone who is helping us.
We understand that the American side is in constant contact with Russia, including regarding the basic document for ending the war. This is a political document, and we have outlined our vision – what can realistically work. And although the diplomacy of Ukraine, the United States, and our partners has been extraordinarily active over the past few months, the main question remains unanswered – and this question concerns Russia, and what they are ready for. Russia’s behavior and rhetoric in no way indicate that they want to end this war or are preparing for that. Everyone sees this. And it depends entirely on our partners – first and foremost on the United States and the President of the United States – what Russia will choose: peace or continued war. That is why all options for pressure on the aggressor must remain on the table – all pressure options.
We see how principled action can be taken against the shadow tanker fleet, as in the case with Venezuelan oil. When there is political will, oil flows can be stopped without any trouble for the global market. We also see that there are many tools to block those who evade sanctions or prop up marginal regimes. Russia must start trying all of this on for size now – if it refuses to move toward real peace. Especially since the circle of Russia’s accomplices is narrowing. And what is happening in Iran now – large-scale protests, in fact an uprising – is also a clear sign that things will not become easier for Russia. And every decent person in the world genuinely wants the people of Iran to finally have the fortune to free themselves from the regime in power there – one that has brought so much evil, including to Ukraine and other countries. It is important that the world does not miss this moment – when change is possible. And every leader, every country, and international organizations must now engage – to help the people remove those responsible for the fact that Iran, unfortunately, has been what it has been. Everything can be different.
Today, I had a good meeting with the Minister of Foreign Affairs of Norway. Norway is one of our biggest supporters in defense. A leader in the PURL initiative, which allows us to purchase American weapons, primarily air defense systems. Norway has significantly helped us with air defense. We again discussed exactly these matters: the protection of the sky, our joint steps, our joint plans – both with Norway and with other partners in Europe. There is also a new support package from Norway – 400 million for energy and for Ukraine’s resilience. Eight billion in annual assistance from Norway. This is very tangible. Thank you!
And today I continued personnel changes – both in the regions and in the Security Service of Ukraine. There will be more decisions. We also just spoke with Prime Minister Yuliia Svyrydenko about recovery and work in all regions. I thank everyone who is literally working for the sake of life. We agreed with the Prime Minister to develop a special program to support precisely these people – those who work directly in repair crews, 24/7, in the most difficult conditions. The government will propose ways to significantly increase the pay of such specialists for each month of winter. And please, make sure to pay attention to the air raid alerts. There is intelligence indicating that the Russians are preparing a new massive strike. Drones to deplete our air defenses, and missiles. They want to exploit the cold. This strike may occur in the coming days. Please take care of yourselves. Take care of Ukraine. And help those who are in the most difficult situation and who need support. Together, we will overcome everything.
Glory to Ukraine!