Ukraine wants to end war by winter, but preparing for difficult full defense - Zelenskyy

The future of a free and peaceful Europe is currently being shaped by Ukraine's defense, and the best guarantee of security for the entire bloc will be Kyiv's accelerated membership in the EU, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy is convinced.

This was announced by Reuters, Ukrainian News Agency reports.

During his speech at the European Union summit, the head of state officially informed the leaders of European countries that Ukraine seeks to end the war with russia by the end of the year using diplomatic tools and increased pressure on the aggressor.

At the same time, he called on partners to help Kyiv prepare for next winter by ensuring the supply of missiles for air defense and energy carriers.

"Every democratic nation in Europe deserves EU membership, and Ukraine deserves it because it has paid more than any other country for its right to be free, independent and... European. The future of Europe - free, united and, of course, peaceful - is decided in our defense," Reuters quotes Zelenskyy as saying.

The President acknowledged that not all member states like the idea of ​​accelerated accession. In particular, Hungary demanded that references to it be removed from the final statement of the European Council. In addition to the European vector, Ukraine also turned to the United States for support in finding solutions to the conflict, which has been going on for more than four years.

"Of course, we want to end this war by winter - through diplomacy and pressure on russia. But we understand who we are dealing with. Putin is a war," he added.

If the fighting drags on, Ukraine will need additional support: gas, diesel fuel, power equipment and a missile package of at least 300 missiles. To finance the Armed Forces, Zelenskyy proposed that the EU create special financial instruments and called for the release of EUR 6 billion from the European Peace Fund.

As Ukrainian News Agency earlier reported, President Volodymyr Zelenskyy called on citizens not to lose vigilance and strictly adhere to security protocols, as due to defeats on the battlefield and loss of economic stability, the Kremlin may resort to another wave of massive shelling.