Zelensky calls for greater global cooperation for peace in meeting with Latin American delegation

Ahead of the conference, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky met with parliamentarians and diplomats from Latin American countries. They discussed various topics, including strengthening cooperation to support Ukraine's defense.

Rubryka reports this, citing the Office of the President.

The delegation, featuring representatives from Argentina, Belize, Brazil, Chile, Colombia, the Dominican Republic, Guatemala, Honduras, Mexico, Panama, El Salvador, Ecuador, Peru, and Costa Rica, attended the Parliamentary Conference titled "Ukraine – Latin American and Caribbean States: Cooperation for the Future."

Russia's aggression and international support

Volodymyr Zelensky provided the guests with a detailed account of the situation in Ukraine, highlighting the impact of Russia's aggression. He discussed attacks on energy infrastructure, daily missile and drone strikes, and the abduction and deportation of Ukrainian children to Russia.

The President discussed the Peace Formula, grounded in the principles of the UN Charter, and emphasized the need to compel Russia toward a fair and just peace:

"Unfortunately, Russia rejects the Peace Formula and all other proposals based on the UN Charter. They reject them because they do not respect the Charter or truly recognize it—only paying it lip service. Putin believes in war and in his missiles. But we must force Russia to a fair peace," Zelensky stated.

He expressed gratitude to Argentina, Ecuador, the Dominican Republic, Costa Rica, and Chile for their participation in the first Peace Summit and urged Latin American countries to join future peacemaking efforts.

Prospects for cooperation

The discussions focused on specific areas of cooperation:

1. Return of deported children: Ukraine urged the delegation to support efforts to return Ukrainian children illegally taken to Russia.
2. Food security: President Zelensky emphasized the critical need to ensure access to food and energy resources during the winter. "This is not about weapons; it's a different issue. It's about ensuring people have food, something to cook for their children, electricity to avoid freezing at night—especially now, in winter," he stressed.
3. Economy, technology, and education: Zelensky outlined opportunities for deeper collaboration in economic development, technological exchange, and educational programs.

Additionally, Zelensky highlighted the importance of countering Russian disinformation, urging the delegation to share their experiences from Kyiv and help spread truthful information about Ukraine's fight against aggression.

"We want state borders to be respected, absolutely. This must apply to Ukraine and all nations, allowing every country to choose its future freely—without coercion, war, or economic pressure. And no one should be able to organize deportations or steal children from another nation, as Russia is doing to Ukrainians," the President stated.

Words of Support from Latin America

The delegation conveyed their solidarity with the people of Ukraine:

"We are a group of your friends. We have come to tell you that Latin America is a friendly land for you. Our people stand with you."

It is worth noting that a new inter-factional association has been established in Ukraine's Parliament to oversee cooperation with Latin America and the Caribbean. This initiative complements ongoing efforts by the President of Ukraine and the Cabinet of Ministers, further strengthening ties with the region.