Peace and freedom in Ukraine can be guaranteed only by EU and NATO membership, - Poroshenko
As reported by Censor.NET citing the president’s press service, Poroshenko said in his speech at a ceremonial meeting on the 30th anniversary of Soviet troops’ withdrawal from Afghanistan.
Poroshenko also said that Ukraine state independence ensures that tragic history does not repeat itself. Our independence relies on strong army and Ukraine armed forces are now the only guarantor of our state sovereignty. "We rely on our army, on sufficient economy and, most importantly, on unity of Ukrainian people," said Poroshenko.
The head of state emphasized that in spite of war and economic blockade, in spite of Crimea annexation and occupation of Donbas, Ukraine military managed to preserve the freedom and independence of Ukraine, to stop Russia’s attempts to divide Ukraine.
"We all know that we, as well as all Russia's neighbors, can achieve peace and freedom only as part of powerful defense association, NATO and the European Union, which will ensure the powerful development of democracy, rule of law, economic and living standards in Ukraine," Poroshenko added.
The president thanked the Verkhovna Rada for supporting his initiative to formalize Ukraine’s course towards EU and NATO membership in the Constitution. Poroshenko is to sign the corresponding draft law next week.