Zelenskyy: Ukraine Wants To End The War By The End Of The Year
- 19.06.2026, 8:11
The country's head of state issued a statement addressed to EU leaders.
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy stated at the EU summit that Europe’s future is being shaped by Ukraine’s defense, and that the best guarantee of security for the bloc’s future would be to grant Kyiv accelerated membership, according to Reuters.
The head of state said he had informed member states that Ukraine wants to end the war with Russia by the end of the year, and also called on them to help Kyiv prepare for the coming winter by providing air defense missiles and fuel.
“Every democratic nation in Europe deserves EU membership, and Ukraine deserves it because it has paid more than any other country for its right to be free, independent, and… European. The future of Europe—free, united, and, of course, peaceful—depends on our defense. This demonstrates just how unique our situation is,” Zelenskyy said.
At the same time, in his address to European leaders, the president acknowledged that not all member states would support accelerated accession. It is noted that Hungary demanded that the relevant wording be removed from the European Council’s statement, which was published after the summit.
“The most important such step—and I know not everyone is fond of this idea—could be Ukraine’s accelerated accession to the EU,” the head of state explained.
Ukraine has also turned to the U.S. for support in its efforts to find a solution to the conflict, which has been ongoing for more than four years.
“Of course, we want to end this war before winter—through diplomacy and pressure on Russia. But we understand who we’re dealing with. Putin means war,” Zelenskyy said.
According to him, if the war continues, Ukraine will need natural gas, diesel fuel, energy equipment, and a missile package consisting of at least 300 missiles.
The president added that Europe’s security depends on ensuring funding for Ukraine’s armed forces, and that the EU and a “coalition of the willing” of countries supporting Kyiv could develop financial instruments for this purpose.
In addition, he called for the allocation of 6 billion euros ($6.9 billion) from the EU’s European Peace Fund, which is intended to support international security.
Zelenskyy once again emphasized that Ukraine is ready for negotiations with Putin to resolve the war. However, he urged Europe to remain vigilant and continue to exert pressure on Moscow.
“Europe must be involved in this process so that we have a strong position, so that sanctions are fully enforced without loopholes, confiscation is carried out without exceptions, and funding for Ukraine is secured,” the head of state noted.
In addition, he urged Ukrainians to be prepared for new attacks by Russian forces, which may “intensify missile and drone strikes against us. Please take shelter; I urge you to do so.”