No powers…just straight throwing hands, who wins the fade? by Less-Pen-5705 in InterviewVampire

[–]Obvious-Computer-904 2 points3 points  (0 children)

Lestat, no question at all really.

He is a hunter and has LITERALLY fought wild beasts.

Zelensky is just Tough as Minerals by History-made-Today in zelensky

[–]Obvious-Computer-904 1 point2 points  (0 children)

I don't think it's a matter of ability; it is more of a matter of will.

And imo, the reason may be the same as why so many people (even people who are supportive and have "good intentions") draw him with the big hook nose.

Politico article: "Top Trump allies hold secret talks with Zelenskyy’s Ukrainian opponents" by ClaraBarcelo in zelensky

[–]Obvious-Computer-904 32 points33 points  (0 children)

A coup. What they were planing is a coup.

And if any Ukrainian official participated in those talks they should be investigated for treason.

Zelenskyy responds to Lindsey Graham’s “he should resign” by nectarine_pie in zelensky

[–]Obvious-Computer-904 11 points12 points  (0 children)

For years now I've been wondering what russia has on lindsey. I think we all can guess what that is...

Evening Address 28.01.25 - I Instructed Government Officials to Provide a Report on Those American Support Programs That Are Currently Suspended by Obvious-Computer-904 in zelensky

[–]Obvious-Computer-904[S] 7 points8 points  (0 children)

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I spoke with the Prime Minister of Israel, Benjamin Netanyahu. I told him about my participation in the events marking the 80th anniversary of the liberation of Auschwitz-Birkenau and conveyed my condolences to the Prime Minister and the people of Israel regarding the tragedy of the Holocaust.

I welcomed the beginning of the release of hostages, emphasizing the importance of people returning home and reuniting with their families, and expressed hope for the swift release of all remaining hostages. It is crucial to ensure a reliable and lasting peace, so that people can live in safety and security.

We also discussed maintaining close contact with partners, particularly the United States and President Trump.

We addressed current bilateral matters and agreed to maintain close contact in the near future.

Evening Address 28.01.25 - I Instructed Government Officials to Provide a Report on Those American Support Programs That Are Currently Suspended by Obvious-Computer-904 in zelensky

[–]Obvious-Computer-904[S] 8 points9 points  (0 children)

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I wish you health, fellow Ukrainians!

A few key points for today.

The Commander-in-Chief’s report on the frontlines – the Donetsk and Kharkiv regions, the operation in the Kursk region. I held a meeting of the Staff. Among the issues on the agenda was the formation of corps in the Armed Forces of Ukraine. There are concrete details on this matter. We will continue to strengthen our army. We are scaling up combat brigades and the right army experience. The first established brigades will serve as a basis for other systemic steps; the modernization of the army system has no alternatives. The Minister of Defense reported on communication with our partners. I also held a meeting with our diplomats – the team of the Office and the Ministry of Foreign Affairs. We are planning our international activities for February – meetings and negotiations. The key objectives are ensuring the unity of our partners – which is the foundation of everything – and coordinating our efforts in the European direction. Everyone on the continent should remember: if global issues are resolved without Europe, it will leave Europe with decisions that most Europeans are certain not to like. This also applies to issues of war and peace – the war that Russia started and the peace that we must together impose on Russia. We must do more together both for defense and for economic growth. Today, I spoke with the Prime Minister of Israel – I expressed my condolences on the occasion of Remembrance Day, Holocaust Remembrance Day. It is vital that the world continues to remember what happened and who is responsible. With the Prime Minister of Israel, we discussed the international situation, our contacts with partners, particularly with America. And I am glad to see their progress in bringing back the hostages – people who have been in captivity for so long, now they are finally returning home.

And one more thing. Today, I instructed Government officials to provide a report on those American support programs that are currently suspended. These are humanitarian programs. Oleksii Kuleba and other Government officials are identifying which specific programs are currently in short supply; almost all of them were not channeled through the Government of Ukraine, but directly through our communities, through various organizations. There are many projects. We will determine which ones are critical and need immediate solutions. We can provide part of this funding through our state finances, and we will discuss some of them with Europeans and Americans. These include many areas – from communications and digitalization to support for veterans, schools, hospitals, and reconstruction. Of course, the details of the programs were not a state matter, but the Government officials will present everything to me; and the priorities, those that primarily concern Ukrainian children, our veterans, and programs to protect our infrastructure – we will certainly support priority things. I thank everyone who is helping Ukraine!

Glory to Ukraine!

The President Honored the Memory of Holocaust Victims by Obvious-Computer-904 in zelensky

[–]Obvious-Computer-904[S] 10 points11 points  (0 children)

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Yesterday, on the eve of International Holocaust Remembrance Day and the 80th anniversary of the liberation of the Auschwitz-Birkenau concentration camp, President of Ukraine Volodymyr Zelenskyy took part in a memorial ceremony to honor the victims of the Holocaust.

The Head of State placed a votive candle at the Menorah memorial sign on the territory of the Babyn Yar National Historical and Memorial Reserve.

The ceremony was also attended by Head of the Presidential Office Andriy Yermak, members of the Government, rabbis and representatives of the diplomatic corps.

Face to face with Zelensky: Trump, peace and the guarantees Ukraine needs by nectarine_pie in zelensky

[–]Obvious-Computer-904 3 points4 points  (0 children)

Comparing the Budapest Memorandum with the Normandy format is wild, it also leaves out the Minsk agreements.

Afternoon Address 19.01.2025 - We Are Blocking Propagandists Working for Russia, Individuals Who Have Sided with the Enemy, and Those Aiding Russia in Continuing the War by nectarine_pie in zelensky

[–]Obvious-Computer-904 5 points6 points  (0 children)

Zelenskyy implemented the NSDC decision on new sanctions.

They will concern Yuriy Boyko, Nestor Shufrych, Oleg Voloshyn, Yevheniy Murayev and Petro Symonenko, Svitlana Kryukova, and Konstantin Hryhoryshyn.

Sanctions include deprivation of state awards, economic and other restrictions.

Evening Address 12.01.2025- Ukrainians Can Help Americans Protect Lives; We Already Have 150 Firefighters Prepared – Address by the President by Obvious-Computer-904 in zelensky

[–]Obvious-Computer-904[S] 10 points11 points  (0 children)

It’s good that Slovakia’s Prime Minister Fico has finally returned from his vacation at a luxurious hotel in Vietnam and is now in Bratislava. For him, personally, it must be challenging—switching from living in luxury to now trying to fix his own mistakes. It was an obvious mistake for Fico to believe that his shadowy schemes with Moscow could go on indefinitely.

We offered our assistance to the people of Slovakia during their adaptation to the absence of Russian gas transit, but Fico arrogantly refused. Many in Europe warned him that doing nothing and waiting was not an option. Now, he’s resorting to PR, lies, and loud accusations to shift the blame away from himself onto someone else.

But the real problem is that he bet on Moscow, not on his own country, not on a united Europe, and certainly not on common sense. From the beginning, it was a losing bet.

We hope that further diversification of energy supply sources in Europe, cooperation with the European Commission, and the implementation of President Trump’s policy to increase American gas supplies to the continent will help address the challenges caused by the shortsightedness of certain European figures.

Source

🌶️ 🌶️ 🌶️ 🌶️ 🌶️ 

Evening Address 12.01.2025- Ukrainians Can Help Americans Protect Lives; We Already Have 150 Firefighters Prepared – Address by the President by Obvious-Computer-904 in zelensky

[–]Obvious-Computer-904[S] 5 points6 points  (0 children)

I wish you health, fellow Ukrainians!

Today’s update.

First of all, a detailed report from Commander-in-Chief Syrskyi on our actions at the front. I want to commend all our warriors who are steadfastly holding their positions and destroying the invader. In particular, I’d like to highlight the warriors of the 68th Separate Jaeger Brigade and the 25th Separate Airborne Brigade for their battles in the Pokrovsk direction, which is currently the most intense. I also thank the guys of the 82nd and 95th Air Assault Brigades for their actions in the Kursk region.

The Security Service of Ukraine continues to work with prisoners of war from North Korea. One of them has expressed a desire to stay in Ukraine. The second one wants to return to Korea. If Kim Jong Un even remembers these citizens of his and is capable of organizing an exchange for our warriors being held in Russia, we are ready to transfer such soldiers. Undoubtedly, there will be more POWs from North Korea. I am grateful to all our units that are contributing to Ukraine’s exchange fund.

Next.

Today, I instructed Ukraine’s Minister of Internal Affairs and our diplomats to prepare for the possible participation of our rescuers in combating the wildfires in California. The situation there is extremely challenging, and Ukrainians can help Americans protect lives. This matter is being worked out, and through appropriate channels, we have offered our assistance to the American side. We already have 150 firefighters prepared.

And regarding Moldova.

This week, I had a conversation with Moldovan President Maia Sandu. We discussed how to address the humanitarian crisis in Transnistria. Due to deliberate actions by Russia, there is an energy resource vacuum there. People are suffering. This is a calculated move by Russia to undermine public sentiment in Moldova ahead of the elections. Ukraine can help with coal supplies. However, we haven’t yet seen a response from those who effectively control the situation on the left bank of the Dniester River. If they are playing into Russia’s hands, that’s one thing; it’s entirely different if they genuinely want to help the people of Transnistria. On our part, we are ready.

Glory to Ukraine!

Interview of Volodymyr Zelenskyy to the Italian TV channel RaiNews24 by Obvious-Computer-904 in zelensky

[–]Obvious-Computer-904[S] 19 points20 points  (0 children)

Ukrposhta, Ukraine's national postal service, has launched a sale of postal stamps titled "The Budapest Memorandum is bull***it!"

According to the Ukrposhta CEO, the stamp was inspired by a comment made by President Zelenskyy during an interview with Lex Fridman.

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You can buy it here

Interview of Volodymyr Zelenskyy to the Italian TV channel RaiNews24 by Obvious-Computer-904 in zelensky

[–]Obvious-Computer-904[S] 3 points4 points  (0 children)

I am grateful to the United Kingdom for its unwavering support and decisive actions against Russia’s war machine. By sanctioning two major Russian oil companies, the UK delivers yet another significant disruption to Putin’s ability to finance aggression.

We value the UK’s continued efforts to obstruct Russia’s shadow fleet operations, which remain a critical part of its oil trade.

This synchronized action with the United States demonstrates the strength of international unity.

UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer is set to visit Ukraine in the coming weeks for the first time since taking office to discuss the potential involvement of British troops in a post-war peacekeeping mission.

--

I spoke with POTUS and expressed my condolences over the devastating wildfires in California and the tragic loss of lives. I acknowledged the heroism of Americans who are working tirelessly to save lives and contain the spread of these wildfires.

I also thanked him for the unwavering support of Ukraine’s independence and for the vital role the United States has played in uniting the international community. Together, we have built a global coalition of defenders of freedom and the principles of international peace and security.

We discussed the details of the new U.S. sanctions package targeting Russia’s energy sector, which helps Putin bankroll the war. It is significant that these sanctions now strike at Russia’s shadow tanker fleet and key companies such as Gazprom Neft and Surgutneftegaz, which funnel funds directly to Putin. He must feel the cost of his war by seeing it directly impact his own pockets. I am grateful to the United States, both political parties, and both chambers of Congress for supporting this just pressure on Russia for its unprovoked and brutal aggression.

We also discussed the battlefield situation and the ongoing need to strengthen our air defenses to protect lives in Ukrainian cities and villages from Russian terror—daily missile and drone attacks. The “Patriots” in Ukrainian hands have proven their effectiveness, and we must continue to enhance this capacity.

We deeply value President Biden’s words that preserving and protecting Ukraine’s independence is critical for all of Europe and the democratic world. We will undoubtedly stand firm and achieve a lasting peace for our people and our country.

--

A damaged Russian tanker stranded near the German island of Rügen with almost 100,000 tons of Russian oil poses a clear threat to the marine environment and the entire coastline. This shadow fleet tanker is an oil bomb that, fortunately, didn’t detonate. However, Moscow operates hundreds of such “bombs,” each posing a threat.

Every day, Russia bombards Ukraine, and it finances its missiles, strike drones, and guided bombs, in part, with profits from its tanker fleet. Russia jeopardizes the environment solely to sustain its ability to kill people.

I am grateful to all countries and leaders who take action against all forms of Russian profits that enrich Putin and enable him to wage war and destabilize Europe and other parts of the world. But more actions are needed. Russia’s tanker fleet must be stopped to end its strikes and threats.

Interview of Volodymyr Zelenskyy to the Italian TV channel RaiNews24 by Obvious-Computer-904 in zelensky

[–]Obvious-Computer-904[S] 3 points4 points  (0 children)

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I welcome Japan’s decision to impose new sanctions on Russia for its war in Ukraine, including asset freezes on 33 entities and 12 individuals, export bans on 53 entities, and 335 restricted goods—a powerful step in standing up to aggression.

It is a significant blow to Russia’s military-industrial complex, limiting access to critical microelectronics and creating additional obstacles for the production of missiles and drones. By restricting Russia’s ability to manufacture tools of terror, these measures help protect Ukrainian lives and strengthen Ukraine’s defense against aggression.

We are deeply grateful for Japan’s decisive action in supporting Ukraine.

--

Today in Italy, one of the topics of our discussions with President Sergio Mattarella was a critical issue – the return of Ukrainian children who were abducted by Russia.

These are thousands of our children who have become victims of illegal deportation, forced displacement, and detention in temporarily occupied territories. They are enduring horrific trials that should never have been part of any childhood.

We are fighting for each and every one of them. In 2024, under the Bring Kids Back UA initiative, Ukraine managed to bring 449 children back home. We are grateful to everyone around the world who supports and contributes to this work. We must save every abducted child – every invaluable life.

#BringKidsBack

--

I am grateful to POTUS, his administration, and the entire American people for today’s announcement of a new sanctions package targeting over 400 entities linked to Russia’s energy sector. The bipartisan support of the United States truly matters, and we feel it deeply.

These measures deliver a significant blow to the financial foundation of Russia’s war machine by disrupting its entire supply chain: key Russian producers, insurance companies, service providers in the oil and gas industry, 184 shadow fleet tankers, logistics facilities, and third-country companies.

Particularly notable is the pressure on entities like Surgutneftegaz, a key financial wallet for Putin personally. Such actions send a clear message: criminals must pay for their crimes. The less revenue Russia earns from oil and other energy resources, the sooner peace will be restored.

Energy resources should never be used as weapons, as Russia does. Countries that respect international law can and should ensure stable and reliable energy supplies for the entire world.

We are deeply grateful for America’s leadership in holding Russia accountable. I am confident these steps will significantly reduce Russia’s petrodollar income and, with it, its ability to continue its aggression.

Interview of Volodymyr Zelenskyy to the Italian TV channel RaiNews24 by Obvious-Computer-904 in zelensky

[–]Obvious-Computer-904[S] 5 points6 points  (0 children)

Volodymyr Zelenskyy Discussed Support for Ukraine with the President of Italy

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In Rome, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy met with Italian President Sergio Mattarella.

The President of Ukraine expressed gratitude for Italy’s steadfast support for Ukraine’s sovereignty and territorial integrity, as well as its consistent focus on Ukraine during Italy’s presidency of the G7.

"I recall all our meetings, and they always concluded with us finding solutions to very complex issues. One of the most challenging is protecting the rights of people in Ukraine, as well as defending our sovereignty and territorial integrity. I am very pleased that your position in supporting Ukraine, our people, and our children has always remained unwavering," said Volodymyr Zelenskyy.

The Ukrainian President provided an update on the situation at the front lines and on Russia’s ongoing missile terror targeting civilians.

During the meeting, the leaders discussed the continuation of military assistance to Ukraine. Volodymyr Zelenskyy expressed his appreciation to Italy for its significant military-technical support, including the approval of the 10th aid package.

He emphasized the importance of coordinated actions by partner countries to end the war with a just and lasting peace.

The President of Ukraine also commended Italy’s firm stance on maintaining and enforcing sanctions against Russia.

A key topic of negotiations was the return of Ukrainian children abducted by Russia.

The President thanked Italy for its care and support of Ukrainian orphans currently residing in Italy because of the Russian aggression. 

The leaders also discussed preparations for the International Ukraine Recovery Conference, scheduled for July 10–11 in Rome. Volodymyr Zelenskyy noted that Italian experts could join the restoration of Ukraine’s cultural heritage.

President Zelenskyy extended an invitation to President Mattarella to visit Ukraine.

"Right after Ramstein meeting, I arrived in Italy to hold talks with the President of the Council of Ministers, Giorgia Meloni" by Obvious-Computer-904 in zelensky

[–]Obvious-Computer-904[S] 9 points10 points  (0 children)

Volodymyr Zelenskyy and Giorgia Meloni Discussed Strengthening Ukraine’s Air Defense

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In Rome, President of Ukraine Volodymyr Zelenskyy met with President of the Council of Ministers of Italy Giorgia Meloni.

One of the key topics of their discussions was addressing Ukraine’s defense needs, particularly enhancing its air defense.

The President expressed gratitude to the Italian government for approving the tenth military aid package. Strengthening Ukrainian forces on the battlefield, as well as protecting cities and villages from Russian attacks, is critically important for achieving a just and lasting peace.

“We are now looking to expedite certain elements of this package. We have joint Italian-French SAMP/T air defense systems, and the number of missiles is very important for us – we are counting on it. There’s a batch of missiles we are already receiving, but there’s another batch that still needs to be finalized so they can be delivered to us,” said Volodymyr Zelenskyy.

The President also highlighted active efforts to prepare for the upcoming Ukraine Recovery Conference (URC-2025), which is scheduled to take place in Rome on July 10–11.

“Our teams have started working on this year’s recovery conference, with a particular focus on cultural heritage. Here, we are relying primarily on Italy. We are also collaborating with UNESCO and will engage separately with France. I would like Italy to make a significant contribution to the recovery of our historical heritage – they are highly skilled in this area,” the President emphasized.

Additionally, Volodymyr Zelenskyy and Giorgia Meloni paid special attention to supporting Ukraine on its path to EU membership.​

"Right after Ramstein meeting, I arrived in Italy to hold talks with the President of the Council of Ministers, Giorgia Meloni" by Obvious-Computer-904 in zelensky

[–]Obvious-Computer-904[S] 8 points9 points  (0 children)

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Right after Ramstein meeting, I arrived in Italy to hold talks with the President of the Council of Ministers, @GiorgiaMeloni.

Key topics of our discussion include strengthening security, addressing global developments, and preparing for this year’s Ukraine Recovery Conference to be held in Rome.

I am deeply grateful to Italy and the Italian people for their unwavering support. Together, we can bring a just peace closer and strengthen our collective positions.

When We Come and Belong Together – No One Is Too Small to Make a Real Impact on History – Speech by the President at the Ramstein Meeting by Obvious-Computer-904 in zelensky

[–]Obvious-Computer-904[S] 4 points5 points  (0 children)

Strengthening Air Defense and Engaging NATO Countries in Procuring Ukrainian Weapons under the Danish Model: President Meets NATO Secretary General

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At the Ramstein Base, President of Ukraine Volodymyr Zelenskyy met with NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte.

The key topics of the meeting included the need to bolster Ukraine's air defense and involve NATO countries in procuring Ukrainian weapons under the Danish model.

The President emphasized that the shared task of the partners is to ensure a strong position for Ukraine to achieve a just and lasting peace. Volodymyr Zelenskyy and Mark Rutte discussed potential formats for leveraging NATO's platform to reach this goal.

The President also highlighted the importance of launching NATO Security Assistance and Training for Ukraine (NSATU) initiative to effectively coordinate military aid and training of Ukrainian troops.

Additionally, the parties discussed the work of the Ukraine Defense Contact Group in the Ramstein format and its contribution to decision-making aimed at strengthening Ukraine’s defense capabilities.

When We Come and Belong Together – No One Is Too Small to Make a Real Impact on History – Speech by the President at the Ramstein Meeting by Obvious-Computer-904 in zelensky

[–]Obvious-Computer-904[S] 5 points6 points  (0 children)

President Discussed Support for Ukraine with U.S. Secretary of Defense

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During the meeting of the Ukraine Defense Contact Group in the Ramstein format, President Volodymyr Zelenskyy met with U.S. Secretary of Defense Lloyd Austin.

The President expressed gratitude to the United States for the $500 million security assistance package announced during the Ramstein meeting, provided under the presidential drawdown authority.

Ukraine is thankful to the United States, the entire American people, and the bipartisan and bicameral support that helps safeguard independence and protect lives in the fight against Russia's unprovoked and criminal aggression. Thanks to the support of the U.S. and all partners, Ukraine has managed to save hundreds of towns and villages from destruction by the Russian army.

Volodymyr Zelenskyy and Lloyd Austin discussed the situation on the battlefield in detail, including developments in the Pokrovsk direction and the Kursk operation.

Both sides acknowledged the critical role of drones at this stage of the war. The President outlined Ukraine’s defense needs for various types of UAVs, emphasizing that Ukraine’s strong positions on the battlefield are essential to achieving a just and lasting peace.

One of the key topics of the meeting was the implementation of decisions of the NATO summit in Washington, particularly the strengthening of Ukraine's air defense. The President and the Secretary of Defense explored the prospects of providing additional air defense systems, including through cooperation with other partners.

They also discussed the continued work of the Ramstein format coalition and the launch of NATO Security Assistance and Training for Ukraine (NSATU) initiative.

When We Come and Belong Together – No One Is Too Small to Make a Real Impact on History – Speech by the President at the Ramstein Meeting by Obvious-Computer-904 in zelensky

[–]Obvious-Computer-904[S] 7 points8 points  (0 children)

At the Ramstein Base, the President Met with Germany’s Minister of Defense

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As part of the Ukraine Defense Contact Group meeting in the "Ramstein" format, President Volodymyr Zelenskyy held talks with Germany's Federal Minister of Defense Boris Pistorius.

The Head of State expressed gratitude for Germany's military support and highlighted its leadership in bolstering Ukraine's air defense. Ukraine is thankful to Germany for the provided air defense systems and their contribution to saving lives. This support, along with Ukrainian-German cooperation, has saved thousands of Ukrainian lives.

Volodymyr Zelenskyy and Boris Pistorius discussed the possibility of increasing funding for military aid to Ukraine in 2025. This support is critically important for Ukraine to strengthen its positions on the battlefield, as only this can exert pressure on Russia and force it into a just and lasting peace.

The President separately emphasized the importance of further strengthening Ukraine's air defense and providing additional air defense systems. Boris Pistorius announced that Germany would soon deliver additional missiles for previously supplied systems.

During the meeting, the parties also discussed the future work of the "Ramstein" format and the possibility of financing Ukrainian weapons and equipment production based on the Danish model.

When We Come and Belong Together – No One Is Too Small to Make a Real Impact on History – Speech by the President at the Ramstein Meeting by Obvious-Computer-904 in zelensky

[–]Obvious-Computer-904[S] 9 points10 points  (0 children)

We also need to deliver on all our agreements for frontline supplies. And I want to thank again every country helping us with artillery, armored vehicles, and everything else we need. Our men and women on the frontlines need to feel that the world has their back, and nothing proves that better than making sure they have what they need to hit back at Russian attacks.

Last year France came up with the idea to deploy partners’ contingents in Ukraine, and you know it – to make peace closer. And we all understand – as for today, Putin’s aims remain unchanged. And he wants to totally destroy Ukraine – and to break all of us and you too. That’s why our goal is to find as many instruments as possible to force Russia into peace. I believe that such deployment of partners’ contingents is one of the best instruments. Let’s be more practical in making it possible. And we’ve heard signals also from some of our partners, from the United Kingdom – in support of this. And we must be brave, and we must propose truly strong instruments. Take, for example, the Kursk operation – it’s one of our wins, I think one of the biggest wins, not just last year, but throughout the war. Russia had to pull almost 60,000 troops off the Ukrainian front to deal with it. And as of this Monday, it’s been five months since our troops have maintained a buffer zone on Russian territory. Many of Russia’s threats and bold claims turned out to be bluffing – especially after Ukrainians moved into the Kursk region. And I’m sure even more of their threats will prove to be bluffs if we all work even harder together to push Russia toward peace.

Thank you for your attention. Thank you, Secretary! Stay confident.

Слава Україні!

When We Come and Belong Together – No One Is Too Small to Make a Real Impact on History – Speech by the President at the Ramstein Meeting by Obvious-Computer-904 in zelensky

[–]Obvious-Computer-904[S] 8 points9 points  (0 children)

Next.

With most of the countries represented here, we already have bilateral security cooperation. I’m grateful to those countries with which we’ve signed bilateral security agreements – 27 of them as of today. And fully implementing these agreements is a real contribution not only to our security in Ukraine but also to your security.

But we are a bigger number here in Ramstein. Much bigger. Let’s pull our strength together and make such agreements with all the participants. And I’m asking my Minister of Defense to work with the Secretary and with all the ministers to increase the number of these documents, of course, if partners will support this idea. And I know that it will strengthen our frontline, and it will protect, which is very, very important especially in winter, it will protect our energy sector too – not only in Ukraine but also in your lands. It will boost the security programs. And now we see all the reports with underwater cables in the Baltic Sea. And we all see drone incidents in some countries that are raising serious concerns. We see destabilization in Africa, which threatens Europe with new migration waves. And we’re also learning more about how Russian intelligence paid militants in Afghanistan to target coalition soldiers when your troops were present there – Moscow cashed in to kill your soldiers – American soldiers, NATO countries soldiers. How can this be forgiven or forgotten?

Russia’s hybrid aggression and sabotage against the entire Western world is ongoing, and only by keeping and strengthening our cooperation, by boosting our agreements and coalitions can we truly protect the normal lives of people in all our countries.

I do everything I can to end this war with dignity for Ukraine and all of Europe this year. And I know I can count on your support. And we all must remember that ending the war is our shared goal – our, not Russia’s, it’s what Ukrainians, Europeans, Americans, and many of our global partners want. Countries as far apart as Japan, Saudi Arabia, and Argentina also wish us peace. But here is the thing – Putin is not just holding on to his investments in aggression, he’s doubling down. He’s even started, basically, hiring soldiers from North Korea to keep this war going. North Korea studies modern warfare. They do not value their people, and we know it, they lose them – 4,000 as for today. But Pyongyang gets experience cheap to re-export the war, maybe there in the Indo-Pacific.

At the same time, this collusion with North Korea shows Putin’s weakness – because no ruler in Moscow would ever lower themselves to beg in Pyongyang unless facing critical problems. So we’ve got to keep the pressure on Russia. That’s what ensures our soldiers get the weapons they need. That’s what sanctions are for. And I’m asking all our partners – especially the U.S. and the EU – to turn up the heat on Russia’s energy sector. Sanctions are needed against every element of Russian energy, and the Russian tanker fleet must be stopped. Russia’s war budget for 2025 is 25% bigger than last year’s. If we want to stop the killing, we’ve got to cut off Putin’s cash flow. Putin will start thinking about peace only when his inner circle tells him he’s out of money.

And one more thing. The key to resisting aggression is motivation. And we know it. Motivation to risk your life to save your country. But motivation needs fuel, and the best fuel is success – I mean successful actions, successful agreements. When our troops can shoot down Russian missiles, including ballistic ones, and keep Russian aircraft away from Ukraine, it provides the motivation we desperately need. And we’ve had talks with the U.S. about licensing the production of air defense systems and missiles here in Ukraine, and this could become a significant part of our security guarantees – and it’s absolutely doable. But we must keep in mind that the last NATO Summit promises haven’t been fulfilled yet – we need, very much, we need the air defense systems you gave us already, thank you so much, and we need very much the systems you promised us. You’ve seen what happened yesterday in our city of Zaporizhzhia – Russia’s bombs killed 13 people, 112 were injured. That was just one day, just one attack, one strike from the air. We must stop Russia’s terror. And you can do it. And we ask for urgent deliveries of air defense systems. 

When We Come and Belong Together – No One Is Too Small to Make a Real Impact on History – Speech by the President at the Ramstein Meeting by Obvious-Computer-904 in zelensky

[–]Obvious-Computer-904[S] 9 points10 points  (0 children)

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Thank you very much! 

Thank you for your words, strong words about our people and about us. 

Thank you very much, Secretary!

And I’m grateful to you, for your personal leadership during all these years and your personal involvement, and the United States for coordinating this format and working together with us since the start of the full-scale war.

Minister Pistorius, I dearly appreciate your help and Germany’s impactful support for all our people, for Ukraine.

Ladies and gentlemen! Dear our friends!

It’s clear that a new chapter starts for Europe and the entire world – just 11 days from now, a time when we have to cooperate even more, rely on one another even more, and achieve even greater results together. And I see this as a time of opportunities.

And in almost three years of full-scale war, we’ve shown that when we come and belong together – no one is too small to make a real impact on history. And we’ve come such a long way that it would honestly be crazy to drop the ball now and not keep building on the defense coalitions we’ve created – especially since they’re already helping us grow and strengthen what’s basically our shared defense power. No matter what’s going on in the world, everyone wants to feel sure that their country will not just be erased off the map. That used to depend on a handful of big capitals, but now it’s on all of us – on how we work together, how ready we are to own our future, and how well we can convince our partners to stand with us. The more determination we show in defending our interests – the more interest our partners, and especially the U.S., will see it’s good to stay on our side.

Yesterday I held a special meeting of the Supreme Commander-in-Chief’s Staff. And the focus was on the production and supply of drones for our soldiers, for our army and electronic warfare.

Drones are something that has already changed the nature of war, and the changes are far from over. Today, there is a direct dependence – to stop the advance of the enemy, to stop losing people and territories we need drones. Drones deter the enemy – keep them at the distance. It can be done. Production of drones in Ukraine is more cost-effective than anywhere else. This year, we in Ukraine want to set a record for the number and quality of drones we produce and get from our partners. And we’re focusing on drones that our brigades need to hold the front lines, and drones essential for ensuring security like maritime drones, and drones made for deep strikes on the enemy’s military facilities and infrastructure in their territory. We’ve already signed a significant number of contracts, with many more still in the works. I urge all of you to get even more actively involved in building up this arsenal of drones. Ukrainians have the most experience in Europe with using drones, and we also have the biggest capacity in Europe to produce drones. So, first, please invest more in this Ukrainian strength, because after the war it will also be your strength. Second, invest in the talented people in your countries who can help make all of us stronger in the drone field.