Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy, in his remarks at the European Political Community Summit in Yerevan, wished Armenia and Azerbaijan “sustainable, comprehensive, long-lasting peace.”

Zelenskyy emphasized Armenia’s participation in this large-scale format together with the EU. He described it as significant that, for the first time in 24 years, the President of Ukraine is visiting Armenia.

“Dear friends, the challenges are clear, absolutely. First, we all see it: the war in Iran remains unresolved, and it could cause instability for a long time, and it may raise the cost of living in all our countries these years. And this could lead to major political shifts. So first of all, our energy and security cooperation needs to be real cooperation, and we need to help each other prepare for winter and deal with energy challenges, and we should also push for a long-term solution for the Strait of Hormuz and for the people of Iran,” he said.

The President of Ukraine also noted that “Russia’s war against Ukraine and Europe” is continuing as strongly as before. According to him, this summer will be the period when the Russian president decides what the next step will be — whether to expand the war or turn to diplomacy.

He expressed gratitude to all the leaders for sanctions against Russian oil, the military industry, and Russian banks.

“We must continue this pressure; we must move Russia to diplomacy. Please oppose any ideas to ease sanctions; this is important. And thank you also to those who are fighting against Russia’s shadow oil fleet,” Zelenskyy said.

“As long as this war continues, strong support for Ukraine must continue. Every support package matters, especially air defense.”

“And one more thing: we need to focus on what we will do if Russia does not end this war. We need continued pressure, and we need peace. And of course, it’s number one: we need to find a workable diplomatic format, and Europe must be at the table in any talks. And we are in contact with the United States, and we understand their views and positions, but it would be good to develop one common European voice for talks with Russians,” he added.