**Zelensky Addresses European Council**
President Volodymyr Zelensky spoke to the Special European Council on March 6. He expressed gratitude for European support during a time of great global tension.
**Seeking Peace**
Zelensky stated that Ukraine has been seeking peace since the start of the war and is willing to take necessary steps for peace. However, he emphasized that Russia is the sole source of the conflict and must accept responsibility for ending it.
**Steps towards Peace**
The President outlined several key steps towards a peaceful resolution:
* Russia must stop attacking energy and civilian infrastructure.
* A truce on the water, with no military operations in the Black Sea.
* Establishing basic trust through prisoner releases.
* Negotiations must address comprehensive security guarantees and an end to the war.
**European Support**
Zelensky emphasized the importance of European support in achieving peace. He urged leaders to continue backing Ukraine’s position on security issues, with Ukraine’s participation in all decision-making processes.
**Defense Efforts**
The President welcomed efforts from the European Commission to re-arm Europe and called for significant investments in arms production in Ukraine. He also encouraged national defense spending increases and modernization of armies across Europe.
**Sanctions and Resilience**
Zelensky thanked leaders for the 16th EU sanctions package and urged continued pressure until Russia stops its occupation. He also pressed for a special European financial instrument to support Ukraine’s resilience.