President Zelenskyy: Proceeds of aggressor’s assets must fund defense against Russia

“We need the proceeds of the aggressor’s assets to work for real defense assistance against the aggressor – for all of this to work for Ukraine and Ukrainians in the coming months. The relevant discussions have been ongoing for too long, and we finally need decisions,” said Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy in a traditional address to the Ukrainian nation on August 21.

Dear Ukrainians!

The key points for today.

First. There have already been several reports by Commander-in-Chief Syrskyi. The frontline – our positions, primarily it is the Pokrovsk direction, our Donetsk region. We understand the enemy’s steps and we are getting stronger. We have checked the ammunition supply. And it is very important that our partners really fulfill their obligations. On each package, on all our agreements. This is fundamental for our defense. Our operation in the Kursk region – our combat work continues; steps are being taken. We control the designated areas. And I thank all our guys, all our units for continuing to replenish the exchange fund.

Second. I had a long, very detailed meeting with Government officials and representatives of the Verkhovna Rada. There were several issues. We are planning decisions that need to be made to support our Defense Forces. And also, to support economic activity in the country. So that we can not only save jobs, but also give the Ukrainian economy more opportunities, more potential for growth. These are important issues, and so are the conclusions drawn after meetings with entrepreneurs in the regions. The Government will provide all the details when the relevant draft decisions are prepared. But we can already say that we have agreed with the Government: the Ministers will look for alternative solutions without putting pressure on legitimate business. And we have also agreed on additional national steps for de-shadowing. In addition, today we discussed our work with partners on advancing real decisions on the promised $50 billion from the frozen Russian assets. There have already been many political statements from our partners. There is still a lot being said about this. But we need a real mechanism.

Full text of the address: Office of the President of Ukraine