Brussels: In an extraordinary plenary session on Tuesday, the European Parliament held discussions with Ukraine’s President Volodymyr Zelenskyy to commemorate 1000 days since the onset of Russia’s full-scale invasion. European Parliament President Roberta Metsola opened the session, emphasizing Parliament’s unwavering support for Ukraine until the nation achieves “freedom and real peace.”
According to Cyprus News Agency, President Metsola condemned Russia’s “brutal, unprovoked and illegal assault” on Ukraine, which she claimed also undermines the rules-based international order. She highlighted that the sacrifices made by Ukrainians over the past 1000 days extend beyond their own nation, impacting the freedom and way of life for all Europeans. Metsola concluded by reinforcing that any peace must be established on the principle of “nothing about Ukraine without Ukraine.”
President Zelenskyy expressed gratitude for the EU’s ongoing support and stated that the collaborative efforts of Ukraine, Europe, and inte
rnational partners have successfully thwarted President Putin’s ambitions to seize Ukraine. He urged European unity, asserting that Russia can be steered towards achieving a just peace. Zelenskyy highlighted the significance of Ukraine’s Peace Formula initiative and called for stringent sanctions against Russia’s “shadow tankers” transporting crude oil and petroleum products, arguing that their operation enables Putin’s war efforts.
Political group leaders within the Parliament echoed support for Ukraine, urging the EU to provide necessary military aid, including air defense systems and long-range missiles. They also called for continued financial and humanitarian assistance while supporting Ukraine’s aspirations for EU and NATO membership. Emphasizing European unity, they advocated for establishing a European defense pillar.
In closing, President Metsola announced that the Ukrainian flag will be displayed alongside the EU flag at the Parliament’s buildings in Brussels, Strasbourg, and Luxembourg.