Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky said today that the security of Southeast Europe and the Black Sea is inseparable, and that Moscow is a source of destruction for everyone in the region.
"The security of Southeast Europe and the Black Sea is inseparable. This has been obvious to Ukraine since 2014, and it became clear to the entire continent in 2022. And yet, even today we are forced to fight not only for our country, but also for this reality to become the cornerstone of a new regional policy," Zelensky said at the Ukraine - Southeast Europe Summit.
He thanked the leaders who gathered for the fourth summit in Ukraine, saying their presence was "a clear and common signal against Russia's attempts to destabilize our region and weaken sovereignty in Europe." He added that this format of cooperation was important and needed to be developed.
"Moscow does not view Ukraine as a country, but as a source of resources and a military base for its future invasions. We all in the region face the same source of destruction. Our region is one of Russia's main targets for creating chaos. We have already seen this in the Balkans, where Russia has incited ethnic conflicts, sabotage, and even attempted coups. We are witnessing attempts to manipulate public opinion in Romania with the participation of Moscow," he wrote on Telegram.
Zelensky also wrote that Russian President Vladimir Putin does not want to end the war and believes that as long as he can fight and dominate his neighbors, he remains politically alive. However, Zelensky says it is possible to put Russia in a position to seek peace and political survival through peaceful means.
He therefore said that defense support for Ukraine is necessary - primarily air defense systems and drones.
"Another important tool is sanctions. The 45th package of EU sanctions could be stronger, especially for Russian oil tankers and the financial sector, $60 per barrel is better than $30, but real peace will come with a limit of $XNUMX – that is the level that will really change the mindset in Moscow," he added.
He also stated that this year Ukraine needs a clear decision on negotiation clusters.
"We have met all the conditions. Blocking progress now is just a waste of time for the whole of Europe. All our countries are important and deserve fair enlargement. The same goes for NATO," he added.
Europe, he said, must do more for its defense, but the US must remember: twice before, destabilization in Europe has drawn American soldiers into devastating wars.
"That's why it's so important for America to remain involved in European security. NATO strengthens the European security architecture. Every European country has the right to choose its own security path. The upcoming NATO summit should confirm this," the Ukrainian president said.
Zelensky, along with leaders including Serbian President Aleksandar Vučić, visited the Alley of Heroes in Odessa, where they paid tribute to the fallen defenders of Ukraine.
Among others, the summit is being attended by the prime ministers of Croatia and Greece, the presidents of Montenegro and Romania, and Slovenian Foreign Minister Tanja Fajon.
Last year, the third Ukraine - Southeast Europe summit was held in Dubrovnik.
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