President of Ukraine Volodymyr Zelensky addressed the nation, reporting on the first results of the evacuation from "Azovstal," and expressed gratitude to our Western partners for comprehensive assistance.

"I wish health to all Ukrainians!

Our defenders and defenderesses!

We finally have a result, the first result of our evacuation operation from "Azovstal" in Mariupol, which we organized for a long time. This required great efforts, lengthy negotiations, and various mediation.

Today, 156 people arrived in Zaporizhzhia. Women and children. They were hiding in shelters for over two months. Just imagine! For example, a child is six months old, two of which—underground, escaping from bombs and shelling. Finally, these people are safe. They will receive assistance.

And I am grateful to everyone who was involved in rescuing these people. Those who negotiated and those who helped. Grateful to each one who ensured the physical movement of people through a humanitarian corridor.

Of course, we will continue to do everything possible to get all our people out of Mariupol and "Azovstal." This is difficult. But we need everyone who remains there: civilians and military personnel. There has not been a day when we did not address this issue or when our people did not try to resolve it.

Yes, we managed to achieve a ceasefire for almost three days so that the humanitarian corridor could function.

Now Russian troops are not adhering to agreements. They continue massive strikes on "Azovstal." They are trying to storm the complex. But I was told many times that it would be impossible to save anyone. That this is impossible. And today, 156 people—arrived in Zaporizhzhia. This is not a victory yet, but already a result. And I believe there is a chance to rescue other of our people.

Clearly, Russian troops reacted extremely nervously to our successes today. Various Ukrainian cities once again became targets for Russian rockets and strikes. Lviv, Vinnytsia, Kyiv region, Dnipropetrovsk region, Odesa, Kharkiv region—today's scale of shelling unequivocally shows that Russia does not have any particular military goal. To strike at Zakarpattya? What exactly can this give Russia? They are trying to vent their helplessness. Because Ukraine is beyond their reach.

But within reach—burning children's attractions in Kharkiv's Gorky Park or destroying some bridge. Or even a grain silo with people inside.

The more such strikes—the further Russia is from civilization. From what is called civilization.

We also have another tragic news today. A horrific road accident occurred in the Rivne region. A bus, a car, and a fuel tanker collided. As of now—17 fatalities. But there may be more victims.

My sincere condolences to all who lost loved ones or close relatives. I have instructed to provide all necessary assistance to those affected.

I am grateful to the Prime Minister of the United Kingdom and a great friend of Ukraine, Boris Johnson, for his support of Ukraine and our defenders, defenderesses. Today Boris addressed our parliament and our nation. These were very important words, warm, friendly, strong. This was a sincere gesture. I am also grateful to Britain for a new package of support for our state that the Prime Minister announced today.

I also addressed the Verkhovna Rada of Ukraine today for the first time since the beginning of full-scale war. Emphasized the main point—not only for me, but for all of Ukraine. I am convinced we must maintain maximum unity. Because our successes depend on unity—both political and defense of the state, strength of our people, our society.

Continued a very useful practice of addressing parliaments of countries—our partners. Today (addressed.—Ed.) to the parliament and nation of Albania. Thanked for support, including military. Highlighted the warmth with which the Albanian people support our people. More such addresses are planned.

Also spoke today with representatives of the largest global companies—in the CEO Club of The Wall Street Journal (this is a very influential club. Three trillion dollars—the combined turnover of companies whose leaders are in this club). About how to pressure Russia to stop the war. About how to rebuild Ukraine together after the war. About what post-war economic model for Ukraine could be like. I believe such economic diplomacy is one of our most important tasks.

Spoke today with President of Poland Andrzej Duda. Greeted him and the entire Polish nation on their national holiday—Polish Constitution Day. Discussed further cooperation, specific steps, and support for our defense.

Informed about the current situation in combat zones. What is happening in Mariupol. About the evacuation of Ukrainians. And what we can do together to help defend our state and our shared freedom—Ukrainians and Poles, all Europeans.

Traditionally before recording an address signed decrees on honoring our heroes. State awards were conferred upon 185 members of the Armed Forces of Ukraine, two posthumously. Two more defenders received the title Hero of Ukraine.

Eternal glory to all our heroes!

Eternal memory to each one—eternal memory to every one—who gave their life for our state!

Glory to Ukraine!">