Negotiations on EU Accession, Strengthening Air Defense and Sanctions – Results of the Meeting Between Volodymyr Zelenskyy and António Cost
President Volodymyr Zelenskyy met with President of the European Council António Costa, EU High Representative for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy Kaja Kallas, and EU Commissioner for Enlargement Marta Kos, who visited Ukraine on their first day in office.
“Peace is the foundation, and we will continue to do everything possible to end this war unleashed by Russia not only against Ukraine but also against the united Europe as soon as possible, to end this war justly and to strengthen our Europe – both the EU institutions and the policies that support every European nation,” said the President.
One of the key topics of the meeting was strengthening air defense. Volodymyr Zelenskyy conveyed specific needs for bolstering Ukraine’s air shield.
The parties also discussed the situation on the frontline, including the implementation of Czech and pan-European initiatives to supply Ukrainian warriors with artillery shells and the development of Ukraine’s defense industry. The President thanked all partners who have invested in projects to produce modern weapons.
He noted that specific mechanisms for utilizing revenues from frozen Russian assets should become operational in January.
The meeting also covered strengthening sanctions policy and the approval of the next sanctions package in the near future.
“Certain countries are already taking action – sanctions against Russia’s shadow fleet of tankers. This needs to be backed up at the EU level. The tanker fleet provides Putin with the largest share of revenue for waging war,” said Volodymyr Zelenskyy.
The President separately expressed gratitude to all partners supporting Ukraine’s efforts to join the European Union and receive an invitation to NATO.
“This December and into next year, we must do as much as possible to advance negotiations with the EU. It is entirely realistic to open the first two negotiation clusters at the beginning of next year and address the rest of the clusters throughout the year. We would very much like to achieve this,” emphasized the President.
António Costa assured that Europe will do everything possible for Ukraine to become an EU member as quickly as possible.
The President of the European Council condemned Russia’s nuclear threats and attacks on energy infrastructure. He noted that the EU would assist in repairing damaged generating facilities and continue providing support.
“This month, the European Union will provide Ukraine with an additional €4.2 billion to support the Ukrainian budget. In addition, starting next month, we will provide €1.5 billion every month for another year. These funds come from frozen Russian assets and can also be used for military purposes,” António Costa said.
He also emphasized that Europe will continue to pressure Russia’s economy to weaken the aggressor state’s ability to wage war. According to the President of the European Council, the EU is preparing its 15th sanctions package.