Zelensky urged EU leaders to allocate €5 billion for artillery shells as soon as possible.

The President of Ukraine, Volodymyr Zelensky, called on European partners to strengthen sanctions pressure on Russia despite diplomatic efforts to resolve the conflict. He emphasized that Russia must continue to feel pressure even while negotiating.

The President cited the recent attack by Russian drones, which occurred despite Putin's statements about the readiness to cease strikes. He also appealed to European leaders for financial support for the purchase of artillery shells and stressed the need for investments in weapons production.

Zelensky underscored that sanctions should remain until Russia withdraws its troops from Ukraine and compensates for the damages caused. He also reported on discussions with U.S. President Donald Trump aimed at achieving a complete ceasefire.

Zelensky expressed concern about the blocking of negotiation clusters regarding Ukraine's EU membership. He called for unity in supporting Ukraine's European aspirations and swift decisions to prevent blockages by individual countries.

Zelensky made this appeal at a European Council meeting on March 20.