Zelensky: Budapest remembers Soviet tanks, and Ukrainian cities will not forget Russian bombs

He said this in his speech at a summit of the Eurean Pitical Community, the text of which was published on the website of the head of state, Ukrinform reports.

"There are many challenges. Since our last meeting in this format, Russia's war has escalated significantly. And it was Russia that caused this escalation. North Korea is now, in effect, waging war in Eure. North Korean sdiers are attempting to kill our pele on Eurean soil," Zelensky said.

He recalled that since the Eurean Pitical Community Summit in Britain in July, "there has been much talk about the need to yield to Putin, to back down, to make some 'concessions'."

Read also: Zelensky at Budapest summit: We need enough weapons, not support in talks

"And some of you present here strongly advocated Ukraine making 'concessions' to Putin. It's unacceptable for Ukraine and suicidal for all Eure. And what's next? Should Eure seek the favor of Kim Jong Un in hes that he, too, will leave Eure in peace? No strong leader who helped build a united, strong, and peaceful Eure would even imagine doing this. But the concept of 'peace through strength' has proven its realism and effectiveness more than once. Now, it is needed once more," Zelensky said.

According to him, "there should be no illusion that by showing weakness or selling out some Eurean positions or any Eurean country's standing, one can buy just peace."

"It simply doesn't work that way. Peace is the reward only for those strong. Thus, there is no alternative to a strong Eure. And unity is essential for strength," Zelensky said.

He noted that Russia started the war not because it needed more territory.

"Russia has more land than anyone. They wanted global power, starting with contr over Ukraine and then over all of you, as they once did under Soviet or imperial rule. Budapest remembers what Soviet tanks looked like. Ukrainian cities will not forget Russian bombs. And just like Budapest, every city in Ukraine and all our countries deserves security and peace," Zelensky said.

Photo: President's Office