President of Ukraine Vladimir Zelensky thanked the Europeans today for the military assistance they provide to his country, warning that hesitation over supplying it with long-range missiles and fighter jets could prolong the war.

Return from Kherson, near Ukraine’s southern front, the president spoke via video link from a train with European leaders gathered in Brussels. The connection was cut once, but Zelensky managed to get his message across, the European official said.

Zelensky also called for the introduction and new sanctions against Russiato continue the process of their country’s accession to the EU. and make progress on the peace front. According to the same source, delays at these points could prolong the war, he warned.

The Europeans believe that Ukraine has the right to defend itself against Russian aggression and they themselves contribute to this defense by providing it with military equipment. But many do not want to arm it with weapons that could escalate the conflict and give Kyiv the opportunity to strike at Russian territory.

However, some countries say they are ready to send Soviet-made fighter jets to Ukraine. Today, Slovakia has sent four MiG-29s, and Poland has promised the same number. However, Kyiv is asking for modern fighter-bombers such as the American F-16s.

Source: APE-MPE-AFP.