The provision of military and financial assistance, sanctions policy and Ukraine’s integration into the EU were discussed during a telephone call between Prime Minister of Ukraine Denis Shmyhal and Prime Minister of Portugal António Costa.

The head of the Ukrainian government praised Portugal's support and assistance, including military assistance.

"Ukraine needs to speed up the supply of various types of weapons from partner countries, because the lives of Ukrainians and further success in the fight against the aggressor depend on it," said Denys Shmyhal.

According to the Prime Minister of Ukraine, the supply of modern weapons to our country should be accompanied by increasing sanctions on russia. He thanked Portugal for supporting all packages of sanctions of the European Union and stressed that the timeliness of sanctions is very important for Ukraine.

"We are confident that the next 6th package will be shortly approved. Tough and effective sanctions can bring an end to the war in Ukraine, "the Prime Minister said.

During the conversation, Denys Shmyhal expressed hope that Portugal would support the provision of additional financial support to Ukraine in the form of 10% of special borrowing rights received from the IMF in August 2021 to strengthen our country's economic stability in the face of the enemy.

The counterparts tackled Portugal's support for recognizing Ukraine as an EU candidate country and gaining membership under the accelerated procedure.

"Together, we can offer Ukraine a speedy reconstruction based on democratic development and a market economy. EU membership itself can be the idea around which all branches of government and the people will be consolidated in the post-war development of the country, " the Prime Minister of Ukraine stressed and added that the country is working on the rebuilding plan of Ukraine and called on partners not only engage in its development but to help with the restoration of liberated areas, in particular in the process of demining.

The Prime Minister of Portugal António Costa expressed his solidarity with Ukraine in the fight against the russian aggressor. He stressed that Portugal is ready to provide all necessary assistance, especially to support the victims. According to António Costa, Portugal supports sanctions against russia and granting Ukraine the status of a candidate country for EU membership.