Zelensky in Brussels stated that there will be no negotiations with Russia without guarantees of security.

President of Ukraine Volodymyr Zelensky met with leaders of European countries and representatives of the European Union during the European Council meeting in Brussels. The main topic of discussion was the strengthening of Ukraine's defense capabilities. The positions of Ukraine in international diplomacy and further integration into the EU were also discussed.

During the European Council meeting on December 19, Zelensky shared who he would like to see at the negotiating table with Russia. He emphasized when this moment would be appropriate.

"Europe must be at the negotiating table when the time comes. Like Ukraine, the EU must begin negotiations from a position of strength, and Europe's strength lies in unity. A ceasefire will not occur until Ukraine has security guarantees and a strong position," Zelensky stressed.

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The President emphasized the urgent need for the supply of 19 air defense systems to Ukraine to protect its energy infrastructure, which is constantly under attack from Russia. The issue of equipping the Armed Forces of Ukraine, following France's example, and investments in Ukrainian weapons production, which Denmark actively supports, was also discussed. Zelensky urged other partners to join these initiatives.

"A strong position for Ukraine means strengthening our army and economy. We are financially secured for the next year: partners have made significant steps, allocating 50 billion euros, as well as 20 billion dollars from the USA. This significantly strengthens Ukraine," he noted.

Negotiations with Ursula von der Leyen and Macron

The President of Ukraine will hold more than 10 meetings and will participate in a session of the European Council. In particular, Zelensky has scheduled meetings with leaders and heads of government from France, Germany, Italy, Denmark, the Netherlands, Poland, the Czech Republic, the NATO Secretary General, the President of the European Council, and the President of the European Commission, with representatives from Britain and other countries. Zelensky held a separate meeting with the President of the European Commission, Ursula von der Leyen. The parties discussed the process of Ukraine's accession to the EU and the possibility of using frozen Russian assets for the restoration of Ukrainian infrastructure.

It is worth noting that Zelensky arrived in Brussels on December 18. Before the start of the session, he announced discussions on issues related to the protection of the energy sector, the provision of modern air defense systems, increasing arms production, and ensuring the safety of children. On December 18, Zelensky met with French President Emmanuel Macron. Both leaders discussed a number of important issues, including support for Ukraine in the war against Russian invaders.

President Volodymyr Zelensky also stated that Kyiv does not yet have strong positions for negotiations with the Kremlin. There are also insufficient guarantees against Russia's future aggression. The strongest security guarantees would be NATO membership, which Ukraine is currently striving for, the president said.

He also categorically ruled out the possibility of reducing the number of the Armed Forces of Ukraine, even after a potential invitation to NATO. During a briefing in Brussels, he stated that the country has no right to reduce its military forces, as this creates risks for national security.