Ukraine is fighting Russia for the EU, say Presidents Zelensky and von der Leyen

Ukraine is fighting Russia "for the EU" say European leaders including President Zelensky, Ursula von der Leyen, and the EU's High Representative Josep Borrell. And the President of the European Commission has vowed to give Ukraine an "answer in a week" regarding its application to join the EU, according the Ukraine President's website.

After meeting with Ursula von der Leyen, Mr Zelensky said Ukraine's goal is to be in the EU because "we share common values and fight for them". It came after he thanked the EU for its "political, financial and military support of Ukraine". However, he also called on the EU to continue to impose sanctions on the Russian Federation "until it gives up its aggressive intentions".

Speaking after "meeting and negotiations" with the President of the European Commission Ursula von der Leyen and High Representative of the EU for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy Josep Borrell in Kyiv, Mr Zelensky said: "The goal is to be in the European Union. The most important thing is that we share the same values. And it is for them that we fight - for freedom, for the rights of our people."

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"I know for sure that we will win and it will all work. And at this distance, right here, near us are the countries of the European Union and the EU leadership. And this financial support is very important today, when the economy is not working yet."

During his meeting with Ursula von der Leyen, Mr Zelensky said: "I want to thank you for a strong sanctions policy. I am grateful to the whole world, to the European Union, to Ursula von der Leyen. I am personally grateful for the fifth package of sanctions.

"Please help us