Ukrainian President, Volodymyr Zelenskyy, has called on European leaders to intensify sanctions against Russia and ensure that frozen Russian assets are channelled towards supporting Ukraine’s defence and recovery efforts.

Zelenskyy made the appeal on Friday during a press briefing in Brussels, Belgium, where he is engaging European leaders on the ongoing war and the need for sustained support for his country.

The Ukrainian leader, who has been at the forefront of diplomatic shuttle across Europe, said it has become imperative for the European Union to take more decisive steps to weaken Russia’s war economy.

According to him, the current sanctions regime, though impactful, needs to be strengthened to close existing loopholes that still allow Russia to fund its military operations against Ukraine.

He stressed that tougher measures should be targeted at individuals and corporate entities that are directly involved in Russia’s military production and supply chain.

Zelenskyy explained that several companies and individuals continue to play critical roles in manufacturing weapons, supplying components and providing financial backing for Russia’s war machine.

He noted that by imposing stricter sanctions on those enablers, Europe would significantly disrupt Russia’s ability to produce missiles, drones and other armaments being used to attack Ukrainian cities.

The President also renewed his call for the European Union to fully utilise frozen Russian assets to support Ukraine, insisting that those funds should be used to defend Ukraine and rebuild destroyed infrastructure.

He argued that it is only just and fair for assets belonging to the aggressor to be used to repair the massive destruction caused by the war, rather than allowing them to remain idle while Ukraine struggles.

Zelenskyy disclosed that Ukraine is working closely with international partners to strengthen its defence capabilities and explore additional options for communication and military support.

He said his government remains in constant talks with allies in Europe and beyond to secure advanced air defence systems, artillery and other critical military equipment needed to repel Russian attacks.

The Ukrainian leader added that beyond military hardware, Ukraine is also exploring improved communication systems and intelligence sharing to enhance coordination on the battlefield.

According to him, effective communication and modern military support are essential to counter Russia’s evolving tactics and to protect Ukrainian civilians from incessant bombardments.

He commended European leaders for their continued solidarity since the war began, but warned that any sign of fatigue or division within Europe would only embolden Moscow to escalate its aggression.

Zelenskyy pointed out that Russia has continued to target energy infrastructure, residential buildings and other civilian facilities in Ukraine, leading to loss of lives and worsening humanitarian conditions.

He maintained that sustained European support, both in terms of sanctions and direct assistance to Ukraine, is necessary to put pressure on the Kremlin to seek a genuine path to peace.

The President further stated that Ukraine remains committed to a just and lasting peace, but insisted that such peace cannot be achieved by allowing Russia to benefit from its aggression.

He said the utilisation of frozen Russian assets would send a strong signal that actions that violate international law and undermine global peace will attract serious consequences.

Zelenskyy also called on European leaders to ensure unity in implementing sanctions, noting that inconsistent enforcement across member states has created room for Russia to circumvent restrictions.

He urged the EU to establish a more robust monitoring mechanism to track and block attempts by sanctioned individuals and companies to evade sanctions through third countries.

Speaking on Ukraine’s defence strategy, the President said his administration is prioritising the protection of its airspace, the strengthening of its ground forces and the securing of its borders.

He disclosed that diplomatic efforts are ongoing to attract more investment into Ukraine’s domestic defence production, with a view to reducing over-dependence on external military supplies.

Zelenskyy expressed optimism that with stronger sanctions on Russia, effective use of frozen assets and increased military cooperation with Europe, Ukraine would be in a better position to defend its sovereignty.

He reiterated that the war in Ukraine is not just about his country, but about the future of security and stability in Europe, adding that a failure to stop Russia now could have wider implications for the continent.

The briefing in Brussels is part of a series of engagements by the Ukrainian leader aimed at galvanising continued support from European partners as the war enters another critical phase.

Meanwhile, European leaders are expected to deliberate on Zelenskyy’s proposals in the coming days, with indications that further sanctions and discussions on the fate of frozen Russian assets are already on the agenda.