Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has expressed a strong hope that the ongoing conflict in his country might conclude during Cyprus's six-month term leading the Council of the European Union. Speaking in Nicosia, Zelenskyy emphasized Ukraine's persistent aspiration for full and fair EU membership, drawing a parallel to Cyprus's own integration history. He conveyed his profound expectation that the Cypriot presidency would significantly accelerate Ukraine's accession process.
During the opening ceremony of Cyprus's EU Council presidency, Zelenskyy highlighted the critical importance of Ukraine's European integration as a core objective of the island nation's leadership. He articulated his conviction that the current geopolitical landscape demands a decisive move towards Ukraine's inclusion, stating, "We all expect a lot from this presidency." These sentiments were further reinforced during bilateral discussions with Cypriot President Nikos Christodoulides, where Zelenskyy stressed Ukraine's priority status for the Cypriot administration.
Beyond accession prospects, Zelenskyy reiterated his call for stronger sanctions against Russia. He disclosed that a new sanctions package targeting Moscow's "shadow fleet," vessels allegedly used to bypass oil price caps, was nearing finalization. This initiative demonstrates Ukraine's continued commitment to exerting economic pressure and limiting Russia's financial capacity for its military operations.
The Ukrainian leader also acknowledged the parallel aspirations of Moldova, another EU candidate country. Zelenskyy noted President Christodoulides' objective of facilitating the simultaneous opening of accession negotiation chapters for both Ukraine and Moldova during the Cypriot presidency. This coordinated approach suggests a broader EU strategy to enhance stability and democratic development in Eastern Europe.
Zelenskyy's remarks during this significant diplomatic event underscore the persistent urgency of Ukraine's situation and its unwavering commitment to its European future. The war, now in its third year, continues to inflict heavy losses, making tangible progress on its EU membership path essential for national resilience and a symbol of international solidarity. The ambitious hope that the Cypriot presidency might coincide with the war's resolution reflects a deep-seated desire for peace and a return to normalcy, intertwined with the aspiration for a secure and prosperous future within the European Union.