Ukraine demanded an immediate Russian ceasefire and troop withdrawal on Monday, the fifth day of the Kremlin’s offensive against the country, as a Kyiv delegation arrived for talks with Russian negotiators.
He also demanded that Ukraine be admitted to the European Union “immediately.”
On Thursday, Russia invaded Ukraine, sending shockwaves around the world.
Ukraine’s forces, aided by Western weapons, have slowed the Russian army’s advance.
The Ukrainian military also accused Russia of launching a missile attack on residential buildings in the cities of Zhytomyr and Chernigiv, which are located in the country’s northwest and north, respectively.
The Ukrainian presidency said in a statement ahead of the peace talks on Monday, “The Ukrainian delegation arrived at the Ukrainian-Belarusian border to participate in talks with representatives of the Russian Federation.”
“The key issue of the talks is an immediate ceasefire and the withdrawal of troops from Ukraine.”
…urges Russian soldiers to lay down arms
Zelensky urged Russian soldiers to lay down their weapons and desert as Ukrainian and Russian delegations were set to hold talks on Moscow’s invasion.
“Abandon your equipment. Get out of here. Don’t believe your commanders. Don’t believe your propagandists. Just save your lives,” Zelensky said in a new address to Russia’s forces, claiming that more than 4,500 Russian soldiers had already lost their lives during the Kremlin’s assault.
…demands ‘immediate’ EU membership for Ukraine
Zelensky urged the European Union to grant his country immediate membership, as Russia’s assault against the pro-Western country went into its fifth day.
“We appeal to the European Union for the immediate accession of Ukraine via a new special procedure,” the 44-year-old leader said in a new video address.
“Our goal is to be together with all Europeans and, most importantly, to be on an equal footing. I’m sure it’s fair. I’m sure it’s possible.”