Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskiy on Thursday called on Cyprus to close its ports to all Russian ships and to deny “privileges” to Russian nationals, as part of an effort to turn the squeeze on Moscow over its invasion of his country.
He was speaking to the Cypriot legislature via video link – part of his virtual tour of addressing national parliaments across the globe.
“Ladies and gentlemen, people of Cyprus – we are grateful for your principled stance,” Zelenskiy said.
Donning a khaki-coloured zip-up top, the Ukrainian leader went on to ask the Cyprus government to deny access to Russian shipping.
He also called for an end to “privileges” afforded to Russian nationals – such as dual nationality through then obtaining of Cypriot passports.
The special session of the House plenum was packed, with President Nicos Anastasiades in attendance.
Following his greeting, Zelensky interrupted his address while a two-minute prepared video depicted images from the war in Ukraine – fighting, dead bodies, refugees.
Closing off, Zelensky said:
“I am certain you feel our pain, and I am certain that you will assist us in our quest to join the European Union.”
Main opposition Akel refused to attend while anti-Russian protests were also being held outside parliament while Zelenskiy was speaking.
The Ukrainian leader has been addressing national parliaments to gain support for his country that was invaded by Russian troops on February 24. In his previous addresses, which included the US congress, the British House of Commons and Israel parliament among others, Zelenskiy used examples familiar to the people of each country to highlight Ukraine’s fight for independence and sovereignty.
Cyprus parliament had condemned Russia’s invasion of Ukraine back in February and had called for an immediate ceasefire, saying it supports the sovereignty, independence and territorial integrity of the country.
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