Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky received a warm welcome upon his arrival at the extraordinary European summit in Brussels on Thursday.
The President of the European Commission, Ursula von der Leyen, confirmed that Europe and Ukraine are at a critical moment.
"Throughout this period, and last week, you were with us," President Zelensky said, referring to the intense spat he experienced last Friday at the White House, before the Trump administration suspended American military aid and intelligence assistance to his country.
He added, "These are not just words, we feel it, we know that we are not alone. It is very important that you have sent a strong signal to the Ukrainian people." Zelenskyy was accompanied by the President of the European Council, Antonio Costa, and von der Leyen.
Volodymyr Zelensky thanked "all European leaders" for the strong support received since the beginning of the war.
"You will always be welcome here in Brussels," Costa said earlier. The Portuguese leader stressed the importance of the decisions expected on Thursday for Europe to spend more, improve its efficiency, and enhance its military capabilities. "This will also boost Ukraine’s defence."
Antonio Costa confirmed that the objective of Europeans is "a just, complete, and lasting peace." He assured that the EU will stand by Ukraine when peace negotiations commence, "at the moment you deem appropriate," addressing Zelenskyy.
Ursula von der Leyen emphasised the significance of the European rearmament plan she presented on Tuesday, which aims to mobilise approximately €800 billion initially.
"Europe faces a clear and immediate danger. It must be able to protect and defend itself, just as we must provide Ukraine with the means to protect itself and work towards a just and lasting peace," she stated.
