Zelenskyy pushes for Ukraine support at European leaders’ summit in Moldova

Zelenskyy advocates for Ukraine’s support at European leaders’ summit in Moldova

BULBOACA, Moldova (BBN) — Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy attended a European leaders’ summit in Moldova to seek political support and security backing for Ukraine from NATO. While he received a warm welcome, there were no concrete commitments made during the summit, which aimed to condemn Russia and Belarus for their non-invitation. Zelenskyy’s visit to Moldova, intended to address regional conflicts and strengthen Europe’s unity against Russia’s war, became the focal point of the event.

Zelenskyy’s stance on security guarantees

After a day of discussions at a winery in the countryside, Zelenskyy emphasized that Ukraine’s best security guarantee lies in NATO and EU membership. He stated that any proposed peace plans for ending the 15-month-old war in Ukraine should not consider Russian concerns. Zelenskyy urged the leaders present to issue a clear invitation for Ukraine’s membership in NATO during the upcoming summit in July. He also stressed the need for a positive decision on Ukraine’s accession to the EU in the fall.

Macron’s support for Zelenskyy

French President Emmanuel Macron, who initiated the European Political Community summit, expressed support for Zelenskyy’s appeal. Macron emphasized the importance of providing strong guarantees and a clear perspective to Ukraine during the NATO leaders’ meeting in Lithuania’s capital on July 11-12. Zelenskyy is equally eager to secure Ukraine’s economic future by initiating membership talks with the 27-nation EU, hoping for a full commitment from EU leaders at their meeting in October.

EU’s unified response and commitments

The EU aimed to use the summit as an opportunity to strengthen its unified response to Russian aggression and reach out to Eastern European countries that were previously part of the Soviet Union or under its influence. Macron highlighted that the summit achieved concrete results, including the commitment to extend cyber and critical infrastructure protection systems of the EU to all European Political Community nations. The leaders also agreed to enhance protection against disinformation.

Moldova’s significance and support for Ukraine

Choosing Moldova as the summit’s venue, a former Soviet republic neighboring Ukraine, sent a message to both the Kremlin and the pro-Western Moldovan government. Moldova, aspiring to join the EU by the end of the decade, has consistently expressed support for Ukraine and provided refuge for war refugees. Moldova’s president, Maia Sandu, assured Zelenskyy of their unwavering support, stating that they will stand by Ukraine for as long as necessary.

Zelenskyy’s call for Western military aid and security guarantees

Zelenskyy, dressed in his characteristic olive green shirt and cargo pants, emphasized the importance of continued Western military aid to Ukraine, saving lives and expediting peace efforts. He advocated for all countries bordering Russia to become full members of the EU and NATO, as Moscow tends to target those outside the common security space. Zelenskyy warned that any doubts shown in Europe regarding Ukraine’s accession would be exploited by Russia, emphasizing that security guarantees are crucial for preventing further conflict.

Casert reported from Brussels. Jovana Gec in Belgrade, Serbia, and Frank Jordans in Berlin contributed to this report.

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What is the purpose of the European leaders’ summit in Moldova?

The purpose of the European leaders’ summit in Moldova is to condemn the non-invitees Russia and Belarus and to address regional conflicts. It aims to strengthen Europe’s unity and discuss ways to provide support and security backing for Ukraine.

What does President Zelenskyy seek at the summit?

President Zelenskyy seeks more political support for Ukraine and security backing from NATO. He emphasizes the importance of NATO and EU membership for Ukraine’s security guarantees. He also hopes for concrete commitments and a clear perspective on Ukraine’s accession to the EU.

What role does Moldova play in the summit?

Moldova, as the host of the summit, sends a strong message to the Kremlin and demonstrates its support for Ukraine and its aspirations for EU membership. The choice of venue near the Ukrainian border highlights the region’s commitment to standing by Ukraine and its efforts to join the European Union.

What commitments were made at the summit?

While there were no concrete commitments made at the summit, the leaders agreed to extend cyber and critical infrastructure protection systems of the EU to all European Political Community nations. They also discussed enhancing protection against disinformation.

What is the significance of Western military aid for Ukraine?

President Zelenskyy emphasizes the importance of continued Western military aid for Ukraine. He believes it saves lives and accelerates peace efforts. The aid is crucial in strengthening Ukraine’s defense capabilities and deterring further aggression.

How does President Zelenskyy address concerns about Russia?

President Zelenskyy dismisses Russian concerns when discussing proposed peace plans for ending the war in Ukraine. He emphasizes that any such plans should not take into account Russian concerns and highlights the need for security guarantees to prevent further conflict.