Zelensky wants international aid for Ukraine reconstruction
Ukrainian President Volodimir Zelensky is enlisting the international community’s help to rebuild his devastated country once the war with Russia is over. “It is necessary not only to restore everything that the occupiers destroyed, but also to create a new foundation for our lives: safe, modern, comfortable, accessible,” he said in a speech on Saturday.
Zelensky says he realizes that this will involve “colossal investments”. “As difficult as it is for us today, we must not forget that there will be a tomorrow,” said the Ukrainian head of state. The reconstruction of Ukraine could cost up to 1000 billion euros, Werner Hoyer of the European Investment Bank (EIB) announced almost two weeks ago.
On Monday there is a meeting in Lugano, Switzerland, at which some 40 potential donor countries will be present. The Ukrainian government then presents for the first time its plans for the reconstruction of the country that was invaded by the Russians at the end of February.
Zelensky told the Ukrainians that the war is far from over. “Its brutality is increasing in some places and that should not be forgotten.” He called on his compatriots to help the victims of the brutal conflict.