Maroc - ENG.UATV.UA - A La Une - 19/Dec 14:52

Zelenskyy at EU Council: “Our priority is air defense”

Ukraine requires 19 more air defense systems to protect its energy infrastructure, particularly nuclear power plants, from Russian missile attacks. President of Ukraine Volodymyr Zelenskyy stated this during the European Council meeting in Brussels, Ukrinform reports. "Our priority is air defense – fulfilling agreements with partners, including the United States, to provide Ukraine with the systems we need. We require 19 more systems to protect energy infrastructure, especially nuclear plants, from Russian missiles," Zelenskyy emphasized. According to the President, these systems, which are already stored at partner bases, have the potential to save lives. "I urge you to keep supporting us and help engage the White House to strengthen their commitment to improving Ukraine’s air defense. Thank you to everyone helping restore Ukraine’s energy and resilience. This, along with air defense, is the best response to Russia’s massive missile attacks," Zelenskyy said. As reported earlier, Zelenskyy previously stated that Ukraine needs 10–12 more Patriot systems to ensure the safety of the country and render Putin's war meaningless. The President of Ukraine stressed that the EU, like Ukraine, must begin negotiations in a strong position. Therefore, Europe needs coordinated work for a long-term peace, and not just a suspension of hostilities, which is what Putin is seeking. We all understand that in January, President Trump will increase efforts to end the war. It is up to us whether Europe will support him with a strong, united voice, - Volodymyr Zelenskyy stressed. "There will be no ceasefire in Ukraine until the country has security guarantees and a strong position", - Zelenskyy The President of Ukraine stated this during a press conference in Brussels. The head of state also stressed that the country cannot live in a state of frozen conflict. He also commented on Putin’s proposal to organize an “experiment with Oreshnik” in Kyiv. “Do you think this is an adequate group of people? Just scumbags!” President Zelenskyy said. “Putin spoke about a ‘technological duel,’ suggesting they target Kyiv with Oreshnik and see how our air defenses respond. This is the kind of logic we are dealing with,” Zelenskyy remarked during a press conference in Brussels. Also, Zelenskyy stressed that Ukraine will not continue transit of Russian gas through its territory to Europe. "We will not engage in extending the transit of Russian gas. We will not give the opportunity to earn additional billions on our blood". — the President of Ukraine said at a press conference in Brussels. Putin also stated during the "direct line" today that the contract for gas transit will not be extended, "Gazprom will survive this." The Ukrainian President once again criticized the Hungarian Prime Minister's attempts to present himself as a "mediator" in "resolving" the war. Zelenskyy added that Orban has "no mandate for negotiations" and that his proposals "resemble political PR more than anything else." Read also: Putin Calls the War a “Thrill” Amid Massive Russian Army Losses and Stumbles While Avoiding a Date for “Liberating” Kursk Region The post Zelenskyy at EU Council: “Our priority is air defense” appeared first on Freedom.