“Now, Russia is trying to bring even more destructions to Ukraine and kill even more people,” Zelenskyy said. “Putin has only one influence mechanism, that is the destruction of lives. He’s not capable of doing anything else.”
Zelenskyy added that Putin has been “doing everything” to disrupt the peace summit planned for Switzerland in June and prolong the war.
“The peace summit needs President Biden,” Zelenskyy said, referring to the U.S. President Joe Biden who has not yet pledged to attend. His absence would benefit Putin, Zelenskyy added.
On Tuesday, Belgium also pledged to provide Ukraine with support over the course of the agreement’s 10-year term. The agreement encompasses a wide range of support, including modern armored vehicles, air force equipment, naval security, mine clearance and military training.
Belgium has committed to supplying the 30 F-16 fighter jets before 2028.
Zelenskyy’s visit to Belgium was initially scheduled earlier but had to be postponed due to Russian forces advancing in Ukraine.
De Croo’s deal with Ukraine comes shortly before the Belgian federal election on June 9, after which the caretaker government cannot make major decisions on foreign policy. The far-right Vlaams Belang is expected to become the biggest party.
Emily Foster is a globe-trotting journalist based in the UK. Her articles offer readers a global perspective on international events, exploring complex geopolitical issues and providing a nuanced view of the world’s most pressing challenges.
