Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky addressed the European Council on March 19, 2026, emphasizing the importance of European support in ongoing peace negotiations with Russia. Speaking via video link during a roundtable at the EU summit in Brussels, he outlined key points regarding Ukraine’s diplomatic efforts and financial needs.
Zelensky stated that Ukraine is committed to making diplomacy effective to end the war, highlighting the necessity of European involvement. He noted that recent signals from the United States indicate that negotiations could resume soon, but he expressed concern about the Russian delegation’s mindset going into these discussions. “It is up to all of us to ensure that the Russians do not come to the negotiations feeling that their position has significantly strengthened,” he said.
“Europe’s participation is a key element of our approach, as peace in Ukraine is peace in Europe. This is our common goal,” Zelensky added.
He also mentioned external factors affecting the situation, including developments in Iran that could impact global oil prices. Zelensky warned that increased use of air defense missiles in the Middle East might lead Russia to believe that Ukraine could soon face shortages of such missiles.
The President criticized the stalled 20th package of EU sanctions against Russia, arguing that it could exert additional pressure on Moscow to pursue genuine peace. He pointed out that recent easing of certain U.S. sanctions against Russia has resulted in significant financial benefits for the Kremlin’s military budget.
“For the third consecutive month, the crucial financial security guarantee package from Europe, amounting to €90 billion for this year and next, has not been operational. This is critically important for us. It is a resource for protecting lives. Even today, we do not know for sure if this support will be unlocked,” Zelensky stated.
Zelensky expressed hope for the unblocking of the €90 billion financial guarantee package, which was expected to be available in the spring but remains stalled. He emphasized that Ukraine is taking necessary steps, including discussions on oil pipelines, to facilitate this support.
“Our energy companies, Naftogaz and Ukrtransnafta, are actively working on the agreements we discussed. But the decision lies with you: do you want Russian oil to be imported into Europe, knowing that it supports the aggressor?” he questioned.
He acknowledged the hardships faced by Ukrainians during the winter due to Russian attacks but affirmed their resilience. Zelensky mentioned that energy meetings in the ‘Ramstein’ format have provided detailed information about Ukraine’s situation and needs. He stressed the urgency of action to protect and rebuild the country’s energy infrastructure.
“Time is of the essence. This work needs to begin now. Therefore, funding is required immediately—at least €5 billion to ensure energy resilience for the next winter within the €90 billion package. The same applies to defense and recovery from Russian strikes. We need to rebuild homes, maintain logistics, and support the daily lives of people. This cannot be postponed to some indefinite ‘later.’ Meanwhile, European arms manufacturers are also waiting for payments for contracts: European aircraft for Ukraine, European air defense systems, European equipment,” he explained.
Zelensky concluded by reiterating that the €90 billion financial support would benefit Europe as well, warning that any blockage of this aid would have repercussions for all parties involved, potentially not always evident but certainly felt.
Further updates are forthcoming.
President Zelensky's address to the European Council highlighted Ukraine's urgent need for financial support and effective diplomatic efforts to negotiate peace with Russia. He emphasized the critical role of European involvement and the risks posed by delays in financial aid and sanctions against Russia.