Zelensky: Europe has no right to respond with silence to what’s happening in Mariupol

That’s according to Ukraine’s President Volodymyr Zelensky, Ukrinform reported, referring to his video address.

“The situation remains extremely difficult in the east of our country. Russia is pulling forces toward Donbas and in the Kharkiv direction. They are preparing for new powerful strikes. We are preparing for an even more proactive defense. We’re using all opportunities – both internal and external. That’s for sure,” the president said.

“I emphasize once again: difficult battles lie ahead. It is still impossible to consider that we have already passed all tests. We all want to win. But everyone will see it when this happens. Everyone will feel that peace is coming,” said Zelensky.

He went on to say that he spoke with French President Macron earlier this afternoon on the humanitarian situation in Ukrainian cities that are under enemy fire.

“The situation in Mariupol was discussed separately. To this, I hope, there may still be solutions. Europe has no right to respond with silence to what is happening in our Mariupol. The whole world must react to this humanitarian catastrophe,” the Ukrainian leader stressed.

Today, humanitarian corridors were open in three regions – Donetsk, Luhansk, and Zaporizhia. A total of 6,266 people were rescued. In particular, 3,071 people from Mariupol.