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14 Feb, 2023

Liberal leaders show support to President Zelenskyy in Brussels

On 9 February, President of Ukraine Volodymyr Zelenskyy travelled to Brussels to meet with EU leaders during an Extraordinary European Council and address the European Parliament.  

“Europe will always remain free as long as we are together and as long as we take care of our Europe, of our European way of life. Each and every one of you is capable to impact and influence our common victory,” declared President Zelenskyy in his speech. 

During the visit, EU leaders reaffirmed their unwavering support for Ukraine’s independence, sovereignty and territorial integrity and its inherent right to self-defence. They agreed to further increase collective pressure on Russia to end the war and withdraw troops and military equipment from Ukraine, highlighting the price cap on petroleum products that the EU adopted on 4 February. They also gave support for the prosecution of Russian war crimes and Ukraine’s initiative for a just peace. Find out more here.  

In a joint press conference with President Zelensky and European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen, President of the European Council Charles Michel declared: 

“It’s time to be firm, clear, and give Ukraine our utmost support. First on the military front: munitions, artillery, vehicles, defence systems. These are the needs we must respond to now. Words are important, but not enough.” 

Arriving to the Extraordinary European Council Meeting, Prime Minister of Luxembourg Xavier Bettel highlighted several key topics of discussion in the European Council: 

“Arrived at the Special Meeting of the European Council where we will have the opportunity to discuss with President Zelenskyy about the situation in Ukraine and about how the EU can offer further support. We will also talk about strengthening competitiveness and about common solutions to migration.” 

Prime Minister of Belgium Alexander De Croo welcomed President Zelenskyy on his arrival to Brussels: 

“Welcome to Belgium, President Zelenskyy. Belgium and Europe are on the side of the Ukrainian people. Your fight for freedom and democracy is also a fight for our values.” 

During the European Council Meeting, Prime Minister of Estonia Kaja Kallas encouraged Europe’s leaders to do more to support Ukraine: 

“Strength lies in unity, as President Zelenskyy’s presence at the European Council reaffirmed. We must all do more to support Ukraine to victory. This means our defence industries producing more and pushing forward accountability for crime of aggression and use of Russia’s frozen assets for Ukraine.” 

Prime Minister Mark Rutte expressed his respect for President Zelenskyy: 

“Good to be in Brussels for a special European Council, which is being held partly at the Netherland’s initiative. Of course, we’ll be discussing the Ukraine conflict. It’s an honour to have President Zelenskyy with us. We will continue supporting Ukraine in its fight against Russia’s aggression.” 

ALDE Party Co-President Ilhan Kyuchyuk MEP bared witness of the historic moment at the European Parliament:  

“Solemn moment in the European Parliament as we wait for President Zelenskyy's address in the European House of Democracy.” 

ALDE Party Vice Presidents Dita Charanzová MEP and Svenja Hahn MEP were also present for President Zelenskyy’s speech to the European Parliament.  

Photo credit: European Union 2023 

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