Ukrainian First Lady Olena Zelenska recently spoke at the 9th edition of the Estoril Conferences, calling for international organizations to take responsibility and provide concrete solutions to help restore peace in Ukraine. She highlighted the systematic deportation of Ukrainian children as one of the most distressing aspects of Russia’s war in Ukraine, emphasizing that the international community had not done enough to address this issue. Zelenska criticized the inaction of international organizations and stressed the need for tangible results to be achieved through discussions and reflection. She emphasized that every act of violence poses a threat to our shared humanity and that taking action is essential to defend the principles of coexistence in the face of adversity.
Zelenska also discussed the challenging everyday realities faced by Ukrainians due to the Russian invasion, illustrating this with examples of the drastic changes in travel and safety. She reflected on how war has reshaped the understanding of time, with critical decisions needing to be made in seconds while the agony of enduring war stretches time into an endless ordeal. Zelenska highlighted the urgency of the situation in Ukraine and emphasized the need for rapid response to prevent further harm and restore peace. She thanked Portuguese President Marcelo Rebelo de Sousa and the president of East Timor, José Ramos-Horta, for their support and participation in global peace initiatives.
During her speech, Zelenska called for global solidarity and action to address the crisis in Ukraine, stressing the importance of coming together to defend the principles of coexistence and peace. She urged the international community to reevaluate their responses to the conflict and to prioritize concrete actions that can bring about positive change. Zelenska emphasized that no crime is too distant to concern us all and that it is essential to work together to prevent further violence and protect the rights of all individuals affected by the conflict in Ukraine.
Zelenska’s speech at the Estoril Conferences received a positive response from the audience, with Portuguese President Marcelo Rebelo de Sousa welcoming her and the audience applauding both before and after her presentation. The First Lady’s message resonated with listeners, highlighting the urgent need for global cooperation and coordinated action to address the crisis in Ukraine. Zelenska’s call for tangible results and meaningful responses from international organizations reflects a growing awareness of the importance of working together to promote peace and security in the face of conflict and violence.
Overall, Zelenska’s speech at the Estoril Conferences emphasized the need for urgent action and global solidarity to address the crisis in Ukraine. She called for a reassessment of international responses to the conflict and stressed the importance of prioritizing concrete solutions to restore peace and protect the rights of all individuals affected by the war. Zelenska’s message underscored the urgency of the situation in Ukraine and the need for rapid and effective intervention to prevent further harm and promote stability in the region. Her speech was met with support and encouragement from the audience, highlighting the shared commitment to peace and cooperation in the face of adversity.
