Zelenskyy Urges Cyprus to Advance Ukraine’s EU Bid

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy called on Cyprus to make Ukraine’s EU membership, financial support and security a priority during its presidency of the Council of the European Union. Speaking at the presidency’s opening ceremony on Jan. 7, 2026, Zelenskyy said Ukraine should be treated as an equal part of Europe’s “common European home.”

Zelenskyy welcomed Cyprus’ stated ambition to open EU accession negotiation clusters for both Ukraine and Moldova during its six-month presidency. He also said Kyiv expected the implementation of a proposed €90 billion support package for Ukraine, arguing that the funding would strengthen both the country’s resilience and Europe’s security.

The Ukrainian president said peace negotiations had entered a more active phase, involving Ukraine, European partners, the United States and the wider “Coalition of the Willing.” He argued that increased pressure on Russia—including stronger sanctions, support for Ukraine’s defense and measures targeting Russia’s shadow fleet—would be necessary to end the war.

Zelenskyy also highlighted the EU’s SAFE defense initiative and urged continued European backing for Ukraine’s military and diplomatic efforts. He expressed hope that the war could end during Cyprus’ presidency and said Ukraine’s eventual EU membership would provide a major guarantee of peace and security for the country and the wider continent.