Lagatar24 Desk
Kyiv, Feb 28: As Russia’s assault against the pro-Western country went into its fifth day, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky on Monday urged the European Union to grant his country immediate membership.
“We appeal to the European Union for the immediate accession of Ukraine via a new special procedure,” he said in a new video address.
“Our goal is to be together with all Europeans and, most importantly, to be on an equal footing. I’m sure it’s fair. I’m sure it’s possible,” he added.
During the first four days of Moscow’s assault, he stated 16 youngsters perished and another 45 were injured, hailing “Ukrainian heroes.”
Michelle Bachelet, the UN’s human rights head, said on Monday that at least 102 civilians had been murdered, including seven children, but that the true figure was likely much higher.
As Russian and Ukrainian negotiators prepared to sit down for their first face-to-face discussions since Russian President Vladimir Putin ordered forces to invade last Thursday, the Ukrainian leader — a former comedian who came to power in 2019 — delivered his latest video statement.
Russian soldiers were requested by Zelensky to put down their weapons.
“Abandon your equipment. Get out of here. Don’t believe your commanders. Don’t believe your propagandists. Just save your lives,” he said.
According to him, at than 4,500 Russian servicemen have died as a result of the war. Russia has acknowledged deaths and casualties but has not provided a figure.
Authorities would also free criminals with military experience, according to the Ukrainian leader, so that they may assist in the country’s defence.
