"The Ukrainian people, not I, chose to be a full-fledged member of the European Union. Why should [illegitimate President of the Russian Federation Vladimir] Putin interfere in our choice? The era of colonialism is over. Putin is not playing a political game. He is striking with his missiles," said Zelensky.
He emphasized that the world allows Putin to do this.
"Should we give up NATO? What are we offered in return? We recognize the dangers and challenges. Who can guarantee that Putin won't return to Ukraine? Which country will assist us with its planes, its troops? Today, we only have bilateral guarantees with our partners for military and financial support. But if Putin comes back with his millions of people, will we once again defend ourselves alone? Will we witness the death of our women and children? The issue is not about joining NATO, but about ensuring our security," the president stated.