Zelenskyy, top EU official discuss support for Ukraine’s defence, energy security

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy held talks with European Council President António Costa to discuss continued support for Ukraine, as reported on the President’s official Telegram channel.

The discussion centred on enhancing Ukraine’s defence capabilities, with a particular focus on protecting the country’s energy infrastructure and increasing domestic production of defence materials, Caliber.Az reports via Russian media.

Costa reaffirmed the European Union's commitment to supporting Ukraine, stressing that the EU will stand by Ukraine regardless of the cost to member states. He also highlighted the importance of tailored and specific assistance for Kyiv.

On December 19, EU High Representative for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy Kaja Kallas voiced strong opposition to pressure on Ukraine to negotiate with Russia. She stated that Russian President Vladimir Putin is not interested in a peaceful resolution to the conflict.

Additionally, the European Commission confirmed the transfer of a €4.1 billion tranche to Ukraine as part of ongoing financial support.

However, Russian President Vladimir Putin has reiterated Russia's openness to negotiations with Ukraine, emphasizing the Kremlin's willingness to engage in diplomatic talks and compromises.

Speaking at a year-end press conference, Putin claimed that Russia has consistently expressed its readiness for dialogue and mentioned that some Ukrainians support the idea of discussions, citing their desire to rid the country of what he described as a "neo-Nazi regime."

Putin also highlighted Russia's ongoing military progress despite opposition from NATO countries, asserting that Russia remains less dependent on external forces and has strengthened its economic independence.

He criticized the rising costs of military supplies in Western nations, pointing out that the price of shells in the West has quadrupled and that NATO countries will struggle to allocate significant portions of their GDP to defence.

In summary, Putin presented a narrative of continued Russian military success, economic resilience, and a commitment to negotiations, while downplaying external pressures.

By Aghakazim Guliyev