Ukrainian president hails visit by Polish, Czech, Slovenian premiers amid Russian war

By Davit Kachkachishvili

KYIV, Ukraine (AA) - Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy on Wednesday praised a joint visit by the prime ministers of Poland, the Czech Republic and Slovenia to the capital Kyiv.

Poland's Prime Minister Mateusz Morawiecki along with his Czech and Slovenian counterparts Petr Fiala and Janez Jansa met with Zelenskyy on Tuesday to reaffirm the European Union’s support for Ukraine as its war with Russia continues.

Speaking after his meeting with the premiers, Zelenskyy described their arrival in Kyiv while Russia continues its attacks on the capital as a "great, brave, correct and sincere step."

Zelenskyy expressed his gratitude to the friendly countries of Poland, the Czech Republic and Slovenia for standing by Ukraine.

He said Ukraine can definitely achieve its goals with the support of partner and friendly countries.

“Most importantly, we have absolute confidence in the leaders of these countries," he said.

The Polish government said Tuesday in a statement that "the purpose of the visit is to confirm the unequivocal support of the entire European Union for the sovereignty and independence of Ukraine. The aim of this visit is also to present a broad package of support for Ukraine and Ukrainians."

The Russia-Ukraine war, which began on Feb. 24, has drawn international condemnation, led to financial sanctions on Moscow and spurred an exodus of global firms from Russia.

At least 691 civilians have been killed and 1,143 injured in Ukraine since the beginning of the war.

More than 3 million refugees have fled to neighboring countries, according to the UN.

*Writing by Zehra Nur Duz