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Ukrainian President Zelensky: "This is a clear signal to Moscow that Europe is steadfast"

Photo: Ukraine Presidency / Ukrainian Pre / IMAGO / ZUMA Wire

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyj hopes that the EU's billion-dollar aid package will send a signal. He sees this as a signal to Moscow – and Washington. "This is a clear signal to Moscow that Europe is steadfast and will not collapse because of the ever new destructive waves that are being devised in the Kremlin," said Zelenskyj in his daily video message on Friday night. At the same time, it is also a message to Washington that Europe is committed to Kiev's interests and is demonstrating unity.

The USA is considered Ukraine's most important supporter in its defense against the Russian war of aggression - especially in the military area. However, due to domestic political quarrels in the USA between Democrats and Republicans, further arms aid for Kiev is currently on hold. Ukrainian troops are on the defensive due to a lack of ammunition and weapons. "We are waiting for America's decisions," Zelenskyj warned again.

The four-year 50 billion package from Brussels primarily ensures social stability in financially troubled Ukraine. Zelenskyj thanked all 27 member states for the agreement, which was only reached after months of struggle, particularly against Hungarian resistance. According to him, his country needs the largest tranches - 18 billion euros each - in the first two years in order to maintain stability.

After the summit, Zelensky expressed his special thanks to Chancellor Olaf Scholz. "Dear Olaf, I am grateful for your personal efforts to make this decision a reality," the Ukrainian head of state wrote on X (formerly Twitter) on Thursday. He praised Germany's role in peace in Europe and assured that supporting Ukraine was the best investment to protect the continent's security.

At the start of the EU summit in Brussels, Chancellor Scholz once again called on the other member states to increase their arms deliveries to Ukraine. Instead of relying on others, each of the 27 member states must do everything they can to help Ukraine defend itself, said Scholz.

aeh/dpa