Kyiv: Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky announced on Thursday that he was currently in Granada, Spain, attending a summit that has brought together leaders from nearly 50 European nations. This visit coincides with Zelensky’s efforts to lobby his Western allies for increased military assistance and air defense systems, in light of concerns about potential heightened Russian attacks during the winter.
In a social media post, Zelensky stated, “Granada, Spain. Summit of the European Political Community. We will collaborate in various formats and engage in significant bilateral discussions.” He emphasized the importance of strengthening air defense, particularly in preparation for the winter, and noted ongoing negotiations with partners to confirm and execute new agreements in this regard.
Russia has escalated its attacks on Ukraine’s ports following its withdrawal from an agreement that ensured safe passage of shipments through the Black Sea. In response, Ukraine has been conducting tests of a new sea route and aims to resume regular exports via the Black Sea. Zelensky highlighted the need for increased attention to the Black Sea region and emphasized the importance of collective efforts to ensure global food security and protect freedom of navigation.
The European Political Community, originally proposed by French President Emmanuel Macron in response to Russia’s invasion of Ukraine, serves as a platform that brings together both European Union member states and non-EU countries for broader discussions.
This year’s summit has been marked by tensions between member countries Armenia and Azerbaijan, with President Ilham Aliyev of Azerbaijan declining a meeting with Armenian leader Nikol Pashinyan, casting a shadow over the event’s opening.
Source: AFP