NATO Invitation, Deployment of EU and US Peacekeeping Forces in Ukraine as Key Security Guarantees and Path to Ending the War – President Zelenskyy

During his participation in a meeting of the European Council, President of Ukraine Volodymyr Zelenskyy noted that it is important for Europe to make a significant contribution to guaranteeing security. As part of these guarantees, Ukraine supports France's initiative to deploy a military contingent in our country and calls on other partners to join it.

‘Europe and America can bring the end of the war and a just and lasting peace closer. However, for the United States to apply maximum pressure, Europe must take a clear position,’ the Head of State added.

Among the steps that will force Russia to recognise the necessity of peace, the President called geopolitical certainty for Ukraine and Europe the first, which means inviting Ukraine to join NATO.

Like Ukraine, the EU should start negotiations in a strong position, and Europe's strength lies in unity, President Zelenskyy said.  

‘We all understand that in January, President Trump will increase efforts to end the war. It depends on us whether Europe will support him with a strong, united voice,’ he said.

Volodymyr Zelenskyy called on all those present to work together to ensure that China, India, Saudi Arabia, Brazil and other partners from the Global South not only respect Ukraine's territorial integrity, but also use their influence on Russia when necessary.

‘We ask Europe to pay more attention to the role of these countries, as they can push Russia to respect the principle of territorial integrity, which is in their own interests and will contribute to the approach of peace,’ the President stressed.

The following is a direct speech.

Now is the time to reflect on the results of the year and our common achievements. Europe's military support for Ukraine has strengthened our ability to defend ourselves against Russia, which has saved many lives. Sanctions against Russia are being strengthened, and this year has seen significant progress in the fight against its shadowy tanker fleet - we must stop Putin from using it to finance his war, and we must free European and international waters from these old ships to prevent oil spills. We also need to put pressure on other areas of the Russian economy and energy exports, including sanctions on Rosatom, another instrument of Russian aggression.

We are united in expanding economic cooperation, especially in the development of our defence industries. We need to continue to increase arms production and enhance Europe's industrial potential. And I am grateful to all partners who are already investing in Ukrainian defence production, in particular in drones and artillery, as well as to those who allocate significant funds for defence. Delivering weapons, increasing production, and strengthening sanctions against Russia to push them to engage in diplomacy will be crucial next year. Europe must be strong.

Our priority is air defence, implementing agreements with partners, including the United States, to provide Ukraine with the necessary systems. We need 19 more systems to protect our energy infrastructure, especially nuclear power plants, from Russian missiles. These systems, already stored at partner bases, can save lives. I urge you to continue to support us and help strengthen the White House's commitment to improving Ukraine's air defence. Thank you to everyone who is helping to restore Ukraine's energy and resilience. This, along with air defence, is the best response to Russia's large-scale missile attacks.

What will make Russia recognise the need for peace?

First: geopolitical clarity for Ukraine and Europe - an invitation to Ukraine to join NATO.

Second: clear progress on Ukraine's EU membership.

Third: strengthening our defence with the promised weapons and air defence systems, as well as urgent equipment for brigades.

Fourth: Increased investment in arms production in Ukraine and Europe to build capacity.

Fifth: maintaining and strengthening sanctions against Russia until a full and lasting peace is achieved.

Sixth: more active use of frozen Russian assets to support peace efforts.

Seventh: social resilience - helping Ukraine rebuild schools, hospitals, and energy infrastructure to ensure normal life. This is proof of the failure of Russia's war.