Zelensky: Those states that are ready to provide Ukraine with security guarantees will be at the negotiating table
17 February 16:13
Only those states that are ready to assume responsibility will be at the peace negotiating table: to provide Ukraine with security guarantees, help stop Russian aggression and restore our country.
This was stated by President Volodymyr Zelenskyy from Abu Dhabi during an online press conference with Ukrainian journalists, Ukrinform reports , Komersant ukrainskyi.
“Regarding China. We have always said that we are ready to have the presence of serious players (during peace talks – ed.),” he said.
At the same time, the head of state stressed that those “who are ready to take responsibility” for security guarantees and assistance, as well as for stopping Putin and investing in Ukraine’s recovery, will be at the negotiating table at this moment.
Zelenskyy also added that the Zaporizhzhia nuclear power plant should become part of the security guarantees.
Answering a question about the change in European policy in support of Ukraine, the President said:
“Europe already knows that it has to change and grow in weapons, in defense, in artificial intelligence, in the agricultural sector, in energy… In addition, it has to give the opportunity to develop all types of energy. It seems that we need to look at it this way: green energy is understandable, but we realize that it will not be enough. For example, (we need to develop – ed.) the gas sector. Nuclear cooperation with Ukraine is very important, and the French are very experienced in this.”
Zelenskyy noted that nuclear energy is “also a real security guarantee.”
“If you ask our partners, they all say: yes, we understand that if it were not for nuclear power, Ukraine could simply… at least lose all winters… If we return to security guarantees… what about the Zaporizhzhia plant? Are these security guarantees for us and Europe? These are security guarantees! These are important conditions. Today the station is not working. It will not work, it is simply impossible without us! And we will produce electricity, supply it to our (consumers) and sell it to Europe. That is, we will provide this security to everyone,” the President emphasized.
The Head of State emphasized that Europe must change and develop in any case.
“Europe needs to be stronger. Because the United States counts more on its internal issues. Yes, America number one is the current US policy, it is their right and choice. You can understand them, because they are a self-sufficient country. I believe that it is dangerous for everyone if America moves away from such a close alliance that it has with Europe today. If they move away – and this includes weapons, the economy, and energy – it will be dangerous, and Russia will be able to take advantage of it. And it will use it. I think this is not very good, but this is the choice of the United States of America,” Zelenskyy said.
