Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky recently asserted that Ukraine’s membership in NATO is essential for ensuring security across Europe. This statement was made during a press conference held in Tallinn, Estonia, alongside leaders from Northern Europe and the Baltic states.
The event was streamed live on the official YouTube channel of the President’s Office. Zelensky emphasized, “As one of our partners stated during our meeting today: ‘Europe cannot protect itself without Ukraine.’ This underscores the necessity for Ukraine to be part of NATO. I am grateful to all partners for recognizing this.”
“As one of our partners stated during our meeting today: ‘Europe cannot protect itself without Ukraine.’ This underscores the necessity for Ukraine to be part of NATO. I am grateful to all partners for recognizing this.”
Strengthening Defense and Diplomacy
In discussing collaborative defense strategies, Zelensky highlighted the need to enhance diplomatic efforts and provide Ukraine with additional air defense systems to bolster European security. He expressed appreciation for countries already investing in Ukraine’s air defense capabilities.
“Until Europe has sufficient air defense and anti-ballistic production capabilities, it is crucial to continue supporting the air defense program. We also discussed our European solutions and our joint efforts to increase the production of air defense capabilities and expand manufacturing here in Europe,” Zelensky noted.
EU Negotiations and Economic Pressure on Russia
Zelensky also called for the immediate opening of all negotiation clusters regarding Ukraine’s European Union membership, asserting that Ukraine is ready and there are no reasons for delay.
“I am also thankful to our partners for their willingness to continue strengthening sanctions against Russia. This is important. Russia must end its war, and only pressure can help achieve that,” he added.
On June 9, President of Estonia Alar Karis and President Zelensky held a joint press conference in Tallinn, where Karis urged the EU and NATO to accept Ukraine into their ranks. Earlier, Zelensky arrived in Estonia for discussions with the Prime Ministers of Finland and Sweden, Petteri Orpo and Ulf Kristersson.
During a press conference in Tallinn, President Zelensky emphasized the necessity of Ukraine's NATO membership for European security. He also advocated for enhanced air defense collaboration and urged the EU to expedite Ukraine's membership negotiations.