Kyiv: Ukraine President Volodymyr Zelensky appealed to the European Union (EU) on Monday to grant his country “immediate” membership. The appeal came on the fifth day since Russia’s assault against the pro-Western country.
“We appeal to the European Union for the immediate accession of Ukraine via a new special procedure,” the 44-year-old leader was quoted as saying in a new video address by news agency AFP.
“Our goal is to be together with all Europeans and, most importantly, to be on an equal footing. I’m sure it’s fair. I’m sure it’s possible.”
“Ukrainians have shown the world who we are. And Russia has shown what it has become,” Zelensky said.
Meanwhile, Ukrainian presidential advisor Mykhailo Podolyak said that talks between Ukraine and Russia began at the Belarussian border. The Ukrainian president’s office said they will press for a ceasefire and withdrawal of Russian forces.
“I suggest we wait for the talks,” Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov was quoted as saying reporters. “I would not declare any negotiating positions,” he added.
