Zelensky in Brussels calls for increased sanctions pressure on Russia

President Volodymyr Zelensky has called on Ukraine's European partners to continue consolidating international efforts and increase sanctions pressure on Russia because of its aggression in Donbas and the occupied Crimea.

He said this at a joint press point with European Council President Donald Tusk in Brussels on Wednesday, June 5, according to an Ukrinform correspondent.

"I today informed Mr. Donald Tusk and other partners about ongoing Russian aggression in Donbas and Crimea. I expressed my gratitude for the EU's unchanged position in support of Ukraine and called for further consolidation of international efforts and strengthening of sanctions pressure in order to bring peace to Ukraine," Zelensky said.

The president also said that he and European partners had discussed the situation regarding Ukrainian citizens illegally detained in Russia, including 24 military sailors, as well as joint efforts in the fight for their release.

"Among my key priorities, I also see countering Russian aggression and consolidating international support in the struggle for Ukraine's independence and territorial integrity," Zelensky said.

Zelensky stays in Brussels on June 4-5 on his first foreign visit as president of Ukraine.

op