Freedom and a Shared Fate: Excerpt from Zelenskyy's Speech at the 4th International Conference on Cities and Regions
Zelenskyy emphasized that Ukraine values not only high-level diplomacy but also the understanding and support of peoples around the world. He pointed out that Ukraine’s struggle is vital to the security and way of life across Europe. If Ukraine falls, all parties will face a common threat.
He expressed gratitude to representatives attending the summit from Poland, France, Germany, Italy, the Baltic States, Hungary, Sweden, the Czech Republic, Slovakia, Belarus (including the presence of Tsikhanouskaya), Belgium, the United Kingdom, Finland, the Netherlands, the United States, Slovenia, Moldova, North Macedonia, and Switzerland. He specifically mentioned the presence of the Mayor of Budapest and expressed hope that Ukrainian-Hungarian relations would return to normal.
Zelenskyy stressed that the survival of the free world is possible precisely because when one party is attacked, others stand up in solidarity. He called on all parties to continue pressuring political leaders to prioritize providing Ukraine with air defense capabilities, protecting both urban and rural populations from attacks.
He noted that the idea of "freedom for us all" is deeply rooted in the hearts of the majority present. Two systems—the European system and the one represented by Russia—are now clashing on Ukrainian soil. Ukraine is not fighting alone; as long as all sides continue to stand together, evil will ultimately fail.
He conveyed profound thanks for every cooperative project, defense support, and reconstruction effort, and firmly believes that freedom and a shared fate will be ultimately decided in Ukraine’s war.
Original article: toutiao.com/article/1866252235035660/
Disclaimer: The views expressed in this article are those of the author personally.