The Ukrainian President addressed the nation several times via video message on Thursday. The most important statements at a glance.
In view of the Russian aggression, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyj has repeatedly addressed the public in moving video messages.
The German Press Agency documents some of his statements from Thursday, in which he also addressed Russian President Vladimir Putin:
A few hours before the invasion begins
he says on the imposition of the state of emergency:
- “This step can be the beginning of a major war on the European continent.”
- “Do the Russians want war? The answer depends only on you, the citizens of the Russian Federation!”
- “If you attack, you will see our faces, not our backs!”
- «The security of Ukraine is linked to the security of its neighbors. So today we have to talk about security across Europe. This is our main goal – peace in Ukraine and safety of our citizens. We are ready to talk to everyone, including you (Putin). In different formats and at any location.»
After the start of the Russian invasion
Zelenskyj addresses himself with the following words:
«Dear citizens of Ukraine,
This morning President Putin announced the launch of a special military operation in Donbass. Russia launched an attack on our military infrastructure and our border security forces. Explosions were heard in many cities.
We introduce a state of war on the entire territory of our state. A minute ago I was having a conversation with President Biden. The US has already started organizing international support.
Today you – each of you – need composure, if possible, please stay at home. We are working, the army is working, the whole defense and security sector is working. I keep in touch with you, the National Security and Defense Council of Ukraine and the Cabinet of Ministers of Ukraine.
I’ll report back soon. No panic! We are strong and ready for anything. We will defeat everyone because we are Ukraine. Glory to Ukraine!»
A few hours later
he also talks about false information and asks the Ukrainians for support:
«My dear Ukrainians,
As promised, I’ll get back to you. I will give you updated and reliable information every hour. We are now being attacked not only by bombs but also by fakes. It is important to get the truth from official sources.
Today Russia started an invasion, Putin started a war with Ukraine, with the whole democratic world. He wants to destroy my state. He wants to destroy our state – everything we had built, what we live for.
I address all Ukrainians, especially all military personnel, who had to face the enemy’s first attack and duly rebuff it: you are courageous, you are unbroken, because you are Ukrainians.
I address every Ukrainian who is now on our soil: we should not panic, we should do whatever is necessary to support the military of Ukraine.
I turn to all Ukrainians who are now abroad: we need your support too, you are a strong united force and you have proved it many times, we need you now.
I’ve spoken to Biden, Johnson, Charles Michel, Duda, Nauseda – we are beginning to form an anti-Putin coalition. We have called on world leaders to implement all possible sanctions against Putin, to launch massive defense support, to close the airspace over Ukraine to the aggressor.
Together we must save Ukraine, save the democratic world – and we will do it. Glory to Ukraine!»
Source: Stern
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