Zelensky: We will not give away the south to anyone

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky addressed the Ukrainians early this morning, returning from his trip to the south of the country.

That's according to the website of the head of state, Ukrinform reports.

During his visit, Zelensky spoke to local authorities, defenders, medics, National Guard soldiers and police. The president said that the defenders of the south have a confident mood and there is no doubt in their eyes that Ukraine will win the war with the Russian invaders.

Zelensky said he also presented awards to the best fighters, including the Order of the Golden Star to the Hero of Ukraine Colonel Vadym Sukharevsky, commander of the 59th separate motorized infantry brigade.

"We will not give away the south to anyone, we will return everything that's ours and the sea will be Ukrainian and safe," Zelensky said.

The head of state said that in Mykolaiv and Odesa, he held meetings with the military and officials responsible for the defense of the two regions.