I wish you good health, fellow Ukrainians!
I just spoke with Chancellor Merz, and earlier today I also held calls with President Costa of the European Council and President of the European Commission Ursula von der Leyen. It is essential that the European support package for Ukraine – €90 billion over two years – be unblocked. These funds had already been approved by the European Council, but were blocked. There can be no grounds for blocking it anymore. The EU asked Ukraine to repair the Druzhba oil pipeline, which had been destroyed by Russia. We have repaired it. We hope the EU will also deliver on the agreed commitments. There has also been no progress for a long time on new sanctions against Russia over this war, which is particularly unhelpful when the United States is easing restrictions. Pressure must be maintained so that the Russians do not feel they can wage war calmly and with impunity.
Today, we held detailed discussions with the military officials – there was a report from Commander-in-Chief Syrskyi and Chief of the General Staff Hnatov. We understand what the Russian army is planning and what their priorities are – we have the relevant maps. We have the details. We will counteract. The forces and means for this have been defined. I also approved our next operations – Ukraine’s long-range sanctions will continue to work and reduce Russia’s capabilities. The war must be brought to an end, and diplomacy will not advance on its own – pressure on the aggressor is needed to drive the war toward its conclusion.
Today, I also had detailed discussions with Ukraine’s Minister of Defense, Fedorov, together with the military command. There are steps that must be taken to improve motivation for our military personnel – both in terms of unit staffing and additional funding for the army. Decisions are being prepared.
One more thing. We agreed with Prime Minister Svyrydenko and Minister of Economy Sobolev that in the coming weeks we will define additional economic measures that will help Ukraine become stronger. A more strategic, systemic approach is needed – one that will allow Ukraine to rely more on its own strength and to give society – now, in the midst of this war – opportunities to live better. This concerns tax strategy, de-shadowing of the economy, and real support for Ukrainian citizens and Ukrainian businesses.
I thank all our people who fight for Ukraine’s interests as if they were their own. I thank everyone who helps us.
Glory to Ukraine!