We hear from many leaders that not only does Ukraine need Europe, but Europe also needs Ukraine. And that is true.

The security challenges posed by Russia are not for one year or five years. Russia has chosen a long-term anti-European, anti-democratic strategy and is building its political course around it. Nothing else is coming from Moscow. Only attempts to buy off certain politicians with various benefits. Not for the sake of peace, but so that those politicians simply sell out the interests of their nations and Europe’s shared interests to Russia.

They will ultimately lose – just as Orbán did. Yet many still try to befriend Putin’s wallets and close their eyes to what is really happening. I want to thank everyone who, nevertheless, continues to fight for their peoples, for Europe’s interests, and for security in Europe – security with Ukraine.

Now, I would like to personally thank the President of the European Commission, Ursula von der Leyen, and the President of the European Council, António Costa, for our joint work, and all European leaders – every single one who makes strong and fair decisions. I also congratulate Moldova on this progress. Ukraine and Moldova are making this journey together toward full membership in the European Union.