President Zelensky calls on Europe to 'not hide sails' from US 'storm'

At the European Political Community Summit in Granada (Spain), Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky mentioned the connection between Washington's cut in aid to Kiev and the "political storm" taking place here. Mr. Zelensky expressed his view that Europe is a continent with potential for independent power, playing a global role, therefore, it must be as strong as possible on all key issues, regardless of what happens in the world.

“In the face of political whirlwinds, Europe should not pull in its sails, but should be as strong as possible in every way. Try to wait out the storm,” President Zelensky said.

The Ukrainian leader expressed confidence that American politicians and society will withstand this “storm.”

The European Political Community is a forum for promoting cooperation between more than 40 countries that was established last year, after the Russia-Ukraine conflict broke out. President Zelensky's attendance at this year's event was not announced in advance for security reasons.

The meeting in Granada gives leaders such as French President Emmanuel Macron, German Chancellor Olaf Scholz and British Prime Minister Rishi Sunak a chance to reaffirm their commitment to Ukraine following political turmoil in both the US and Europe.

Earlier on October 5, President Zelensky called the voices in US political circles about cutting aid to Kiev “strange”. According to him, Kiev is not very worried about the risk of cutting support from Washington, because this is a difficult period for the US as the election is approaching. Therefore, there are different political views among US officials.

In addition, the head of Ukraine told Western journalists that Kiev is expecting help from EU countries and the United States in the winter, providing a solid air defense "shield" such as new air defense equipment, artillery and unmanned aerial systems.