Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy and Cypriot President Nikos Christodoulides met in Nicosia on Jan. 7 to discuss support for Ukraine, its European integration and increased pressure on Russia. Zelenskyy congratulated Cyprus on beginning its presidency of the Council of the European Union and thanked Christodoulides for the country’s humanitarian assistance. The leaders discussed advancing Ukraine’s EU accession process and opening negotiating clusters during Cyprus’s six-month presidency. The talks also covered defense cooperation, including air-defense capabilities, drone supplies and Cyprus’s participation in the PURL initiative and the SAFE instrument. Zelenskyy also highlighted Cyprus’s involvement in the Coalition of the Willing. The presidents discussed diplomatic efforts with U.S. and European partners to achieve what Ukraine described as a dignified peace. They also addressed stronger sanctions against Russia, including measures targeting its shadow fleet and proposals for the European Union’s 20th sanctions package. Humanitarian issues were discussed as well, including the rehabilitation of wounded Ukrainian service members and medical treatment for children. Post navigation Zelenskyy Holds Paris Peace Talks Zelenskyy Meets Cyprus Church Leader