European Parliament President urges member states to decide on provision of long-range systems, tanks and other heavy weapons to Ukraine

European Parliament President Roberta Metsola said this at a special meeting of the European Parliament with the participation of Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy.

"When people think of Ukraine, they think of heroes who are bravely fighting. This is the liberation of Zmiinyi Island, the de-occupation of many cities and towns. Their names will remain in history for many generations. At the same time, Ukraine continues to supply grain to various countries. You have sent lifesaving equipment to Turkey and Syria. This is true solidarity. You are now fighting for our values, our common ideals, which are European," she said.

According to Metsola, Ukraine is Europe and the future of the Ukrainian nation is in Europe and the EU.

"We know what the sacrifices are, the price Ukraine is paying for Europe. We are with you not only in words, but in actions and political unity. We simplify trade processes. We help you financially and provide training for your soldiers. We provide you with the defense weapons that Ukraine needs so much. Now all states must quickly decide the next steps - the provision of long-range systems, tanks and other heavy weapons. Our response must be appropriate to the threat, which is existential. We do not need to be convinced once again to support Ukraine in order to repay with solidarity all those lives lost on the battlefield. We need to ensure Ukraine's victory, a lasting peace, so that evil does not go unpunished and to ensure freedom for Ukraine and all other countries," the President of the European Parliament summarized.