Volodymyr Zelenskyy told EU leaders at a Brussels summit that Ukraine's process to join the European Union must be fast-tracked as the country has paid the ultimate price for it.
“Ukraine merits it because it has paid more than any other European country for its right to be free, independent and European,” he said.
“It is also the right of other nations to be independent from Russia," he added.
Addressing European leaders, Zelenskyy highlighted Ukraine’s military experience, arguing that its defence capabilities are crucial for Europe’s future and could become a key factor in accelerating Kyiv’s path towards EU membership.
In a voice message shared in a WhatsApp group with journalists after the meeting in Brussels, Zelenskyy said all leaders recognised that Ukraine’s armed forces are the strongest in Europe, and the EU will benefit from its expertise.
