Zelenskyi after EU summit: Ukraine's EU path is unstoppable, leaders reaffirm support
The president thanked European Council President António Costa, European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen, and all European leaders who continue to support Ukraine and work to strengthen both Ukraine and the European Union.
According to the president, the most important step now is accelerating Ukraine's path to EU membership. Ukraine is ready to implement the reforms required for accession. Zelenskyi noted that the opening of the first negotiating cluster with the EU on June 15 was a historic decision and said the remaining clusters should be opened as soon as possible.
Zelenskyi stressed that Ukraine's partners recognize the country's strong position and understand that the Russian leader has no intention of ending the war. Despite that, Ukraine remains ready for negotiations.
The president said European partners understand Ukraine's urgent need for stronger air defenses as Russia continues its campaign of aerial attacks. Work will also continue on a Ukrainian-led initiative to help Europe develop its own defenses against ballistic missiles.
Another priority is securing funding for contracts that support Ukraine's military. Zelenskyi said long-term financing guarantees for Ukraine's armed forces are an important pillar of security for all of Europe.
The president welcomed the release of 6 billion euros from the European Peace Facility, saying the funds should be directed toward air defense systems, long-range munitions, and other proven military capabilities. Protecting Ukraine's energy infrastructure ahead of winter is another critical priority, he added.
Zelenskyi also called for tougher sanctions against Russia and greater pressure on all categories of Russian energy exports, including the tankers transporting Russian oil and petroleum products.
Zelenskyi also urged partners to give the Coalition of the Willing new momentum. He said that only strong, coordinated action can create the conditions needed for diplomacy to succeed.
The Ukrainian president arrived in Brussels on June 17 for the June 18–19 European Union summit. During the visit, he also met with NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte and Belgian Prime Minister Bart De Wever, and had an audience with King Philippe of Belgium.
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19 of June 2026
