In a powerful virtual plea to the European Council on March 21, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky called upon EU leaders to substantially increase military support to Ukraine by providing essential ammunition and comprehensive air defense systems.
Zelensky highlighted the dire need for air defense units that would enable Ukraine to safeguard its entire territory, especially the hard-hit southern and eastern regions, from ongoing Russian barrages.
The Ukrainian president stressed the critical need for ammunition, pointing out that the present levels were grossly insufficient for the frontline demands and that increased European support was indispensable and urgent.
“Unfortunately, the use of artillery on the front line by our soldiers is humiliating for Europe in the sense that Europe can provide more. And it is crucial to prove it now,” Zelensky remarked.
In his address, Zelensky stressed the necessity for allies to intensify defense manufacturing and not squander any time, echoing European Council President Charles Michel’s prior statement regarding the need for the EU’s economy to mobilize in a “war footing” to bolster joint defense initiatives and procurement.
Further, Zelensky welcomed the EU’s decision to establish a Defense Innovation office in Kyiv and promoted investing in Ukrainian drone technology capabilities, confirming the potential for significant advancements should appropriate funding be secured.
“The potential of our drone production is sufficient. And sufficient funding is needed to realize this potential on the front line,” he stated.
Zelensky also addressed trade pressures faced by Ukraine, pointing out the imbalance as Ukrainian grain supports food security abroad while Russian and Belarusian goods flow to Europe unhindered. He urged fairness and the maintenance of longstanding systematic trade solutions that have underpinned European strength.
As negotiations concerning Ukraine’s EU accession commence, Zelensky expressed that this process is a key motivator for the Ukrainian people’s resistance against Russia and indicated Kyiv’s commitment to meeting its obligations within the negotiating framework.
Concluding his speech, Zelensky urged the EU to direct frozen Russian assets towards Ukraine’s reconstruction effort and defense procurement, supporting the European Commission’s proposal that anticipated generating approximately 3 billion euros annually to aid Ukraine.
Despite this proposal, reports suggest EU leaders may not reach a consensus during the summit on the allocation of such funds, with some nations, including Hungary, voicing opposition to bolstering Ukraine’s military capabilities via these avenues.
FAQs about EU Military Aid to Ukraine
- What kind of military aid is President Zelensky requesting from EU leaders?
President Zelensky is requesting additional artillery shells, missiles, and comprehensive air defense systems to protect Ukraine’s territory.
- Why is increased military aid to Ukraine essential according to Zelensky?
A growing shortfall in ammunition and insufficient air defenses against Russian strikes have created an urgent need for increased military support from the EU.
- How has the European Council responded to Zelensky’s appeal?
Although a number of European countries have pledged support, the EU as a whole has not yet reached a consensus on new measures, such as the allocation of frozen Russian assets for Ukrainian defense.
- What does Zelensky propose regarding frozen Russian assets?
Zelensky supports the European Commission’s proposal to use the majority of proceeds from frozen Russian assets to support Ukraine’s military, with a portion also contributing to the EU budget for defense purposes.
Conclusion
President Volodymyr Zelensky’s impassioned appeal to the European Council reflects the serious and ongoing challenges Ukraine faces amidst the Russian aggression. The plea for increased military aid, including vital ammunition and air defense systems, underscores the critical situation on the ground and the need for urgent and robust international support. While the EU has made some steps towards this, the discord within the bloc indicates that more negotiation and diplomatic effort will be necessary to align on the best ways to support Ukraine in its fight for sovereignty and peace.
Note: We, TheUBJ, do not produce the news content presented here. The information provided is a rewritten version sourced from various sources on the internet through AI news feed technology. We do not claim ownership or authorship of the news content. The original https://kyivindependent.com/zelensky-addresses-eu-leaders-urges-sending-shells-air-defense-systems/ link is provided for reference.