This is a chance for us: Zelenskyy asks EU leaders for quick membership

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy thanked EU leaders for working together to support Ukraine and impose sanctions on Russia, including Germany’s decision to block Russia from delivering natural gas to Europe through the new Nord Stream 2 pipeline.

Zelenskyy also lamented that had these steps been taken earlier, Russia “would have thought twice” before invading.

Zelenskyy then appealed to the EU leaders, who had gathered in Brussels on Thursday, to move quickly on Ukraine’s application to join the bloc. “Here I ask you, do not delay. Please. This is a chance for us,” Zelenskyy said by video from Kyiv.

Zelenskyy also listed the 27 member countries, which he said were in support of Ukraine.

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Zelenskyy appealed to Germany and particularly to Hungary not to block Ukraine’s bid.

“Listen, Viktor, do you know what is happening in Mariupol?” Zelenskyy said, addressing Hungarian President Viktor Orban. “I want to be open once and for all you should decide for yourself, who you are for,” Zelenskyy said.

Orban is widely considered to be Russian President Vladimir Putin’s closest ally among EU leaders.

“Ukraine is certain that in the decisive moment, Germany also will be with us,” Zelenskyy said.

(With inputs from Agencies)