Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy is on a diplomatic mission across Europe, visiting capitals such as Berlin, Paris, Rome, and London. His primary aim is to garner support against Russia's ongoing aggression towards Ukraine. Zelenskyy's itinerary includes meetings with leaders like French President Emmanuel Macron and UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer, focusing on military and strategic support.
During a summit in Croatia, Zelenskyy advocated for a united Europe, urging the European Union to embrace all democratic nations, including Ukraine and several Balkan countries. He emphasized the importance of European unity in maintaining peace and stability.
Meanwhile, violence escalates as a Russian missile strike on Odesa killed six people, highlighting the ongoing threat to Ukraine's port infrastructure. Zelenskyy continues to seek more military aid, including long-range weapons, reflecting the pressing need for a robust defense against Russian attacks.
Additionally, Southeast European nations and Turkey have called for Russia's complete withdrawal from occupied Ukrainian territories. They back Zelenskyy's peace plan and Ukraine's potential NATO membership, a significant diplomatic stance in the region.
In Russia, tensions rise as a court sentences activist Yevgeny Mischchenko to a lengthy prison term for supporting a Ukrainian-aligned group. This reflects the Kremlin's hardline approach towards dissenting voices amid the ongoing conflict.
Zelenskyy's tour also comes with plans for a Ukraine reconstruction conference in 2025, spearheaded by Italy, signaling long-term support for Ukraine. As Zelenskyy navigates complex international dynamics, his efforts underscore the critical need for continuous international support to address Ukraine's dire security challenges.
