Zelensky Thanks EU Leaders for "Gratitude in Not Being Alone"

by Lee Kimin

Published 06 Mar.2025 21:26(KST)

EU Leaders: "We Will Stand with Ukraine"

Volodymyr Zelensky, President of Ukraine, expressed his gratitude to the European Union (EU) on the 6th (local time), saying, "I am truly thankful that we are not alone. I feel it deeply."

President Zelensky said this ahead of the EU special summit held in Brussels, Belgium, in the afternoon, addressing EU leaders and heads of state from various countries: "From the first day of the war until now, and throughout last week, thank you very much for standing with us (Ukraine). It is truly important that the EU and its member states have sent a strong signal of support to the Ukrainian people, soldiers, and all families."

The "last week" mentioned by President Zelensky appears to be an indirect reference to the disastrous summit with then-U.S. President Donald Trump. At that time, European leaders expressed solidarity with Ukraine. Although the U.S. temporarily suspended intelligence and military support to Ukraine after the summit, some European countries continue to provide intelligence and other assistance.

Ursula von der Leyen, President of the European Commission, also pointed out, "This is a very important moment to show that we will stand with Ukraine no matter how long it takes."

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She also referred to the "European Rearmament Plan" announced ahead of this summit, emphasizing, "It will not only rearm the EU but also arm Ukraine so that it can fight the existential struggle for sovereignty and territorial integrity."

Ant?nio Costa, President of the European Council, expressed solidarity, saying, "Just as we have been since the first day of the war, we will stand with Ukraine, a future EU member state, today and until the peace negotiations you will decide on in the future."

The EU unveiled the "Rearmament Plan," aiming to mobilize about 800 billion euros (approximately 1,229 trillion won) shortly after the Trump administration officially announced the suspension of military aid. The EU expects a significant increase in national defense budgets and simultaneous growth in investment in Ukraine's defense industry and direct military assistance.

Separately, the EU plans to discuss a separate aid package for short-term additional support to Ukraine at the summit. Hungary and Slovakia, known for their pro-Russian stance, are reportedly opposed to this aid proposal.