The Ukrainian leader stressed that France and Germany were with Ukraine during these months. “We went through a lot of things – from February last year to February. We ensured strong unity – ours and Europe. We strengthened the continent. We strengthened Ukraine,” the President said.
He added that Macron and Scholz showed their leadership when they decided to transfer Iris-T light tanks and air defense systems to Ukraine.
Now we all have a little time. And it's not today. It's about the weeks and months we have ahead of us. So, it's about the weapons we need. It is needed to strengthen our common positions – Ukraine and all Europeans,” Zelensky said.
He stressed that France and Germany have the potential to change the rules of the game. “And this is how I see the negotiations today,” Zelensky said.
The President of Ukraine noted the “obvious things” that will put an end to Russian aggression and restore peace to Europe.
“The sooner Ukraine receives long-range weapons… Emmanuele, the sooner our pilots receive modern aircraft… Olaf, the stronger our tank coalition is, the sooner Russian aggression will end and we will return peace to Europe,” the head of state said.
He added that he expects the meeting in Paris to strengthen defense, political and sanctions unity.
Russia should not win: what Macron said
French President Emmanuel Macron at a briefing stressed that the West will support Ukraine and Russia should not win this war.
Russia cannot and must not win. As long as it attacks, we will need to continue to provide the military support needed to keep Ukraine together. We will continue our efforts, and together tonight (with the German Chancellor – Channel 24) we will discuss the operational needs of Ukraine,” Macron said.
He also noted that France, for its part, will continue to accompany Ukraine on the path to victory and recovery sovereignty and territorial integrity.
In addition, Macron supported the “peace formula” of President Zelensky.
“Ukraine can count on us in building peace. The plan you proposed is the necessary basis for discussing this path, which should lead us to an international peace conference,” he said.
Scholz assured Ukraine of long-term support
At the briefing, Scholz noted that Ukraine has been heroically fighting against Russian aggression for a year now. According to him, the civilian population and critical infrastructure suffer from the war.
Many Ukrainians died in this war. There are also a lot of injuries. Millions of people have been forcibly displaced,” Scholz said, adding that many were forced to leave for Poland, Germany and other countries.
German Chancellor, Ukrainians showing courage in defense, “that we can only bow our heads.”< /p>
Scholz supported Macron's statement that military aid for Ukraine would be kept for as long as necessary.
