Zelensky spoke at the Council of Europe meeting — what he said

On Friday, May 9, the President of Ukraine, Volodymyr Zelensky, delivered his speech via video link at the meeting of the Council of Europe held in Lviv. The Head of State thanked the European leaders for their visit to Ukraine and support in the fight against Russian aggression.

It was reported by the correspondent of Novyny.LIVE.

 

What did Zelensky say?

In his address, Zelensky emphasized the common values that unite European democracies and emphasized the importance of strengthening unity for peace.

"You all represent countries that believe in international law. And I am glad to see you all here in Ukraine. Not just supporting us from afar, but actually standing next to us. It shows that we are all Europe, all democracies, united not only by borders or institutions, but by common values and instruments. You have come with strong intentions to support our people and readiness to increase pressure on Russia for the sake of real peace," the President said.

In his address, the Head of State called on the international community to make a decision on the establishment of a special tribunal on the crime of Russian aggression, stressing that only bringing to justice could stop further wars.

"Today, you are faced with a decision. A decision to create a mechanism that will help prevent future wars. Through accountability. The decision to create a tribunal. And I urge you to make this decision for the sake of all the most vulnerable. Russia must be brought to justice," Zelensky emphasized.

He also recalled the importance of Europe, which is based on respect for human dignity, human rights, and the rule of law. Zelensky thanked partners from Japan, Australia, and Nicaragua for supporting the justice process and called for strengthening cooperation with the International Criminal Court.

"We all understand that there is a lot of political and legal work ahead, and we all understand how difficult it is to actually bring war criminals to justice. But we are already showing that Russia will be held accountable for this war. It has become more possible than ever in the history of mankind," the President summarised.

As a reminder, on May 7, during his evening video address, Zelensky noted that the ceasefire proposal still stands.

Also, the new Chancellor of Germany, Friedrich Merz, stated that Ukraine could continue to rely on the Federal Republic of Germany in the fight against Russian aggression.