President of Ukraine Volodymyr Zelensky addressed the nation, speaking about the need to increase pressure on the Iranian regime and about very harsh Russian attacks in Donetsk.

"I wish you good health, dear Ukrainians!

Today I spoke with President of the European Commission Ursula von der Leyen. This was a highly productive conversation between us. A working discussion. We have confirmation from Her Excellency regarding macrofinancial support for Ukraine — until the end of this year and in the next year. The amount and details of this program will be presented by our European friends starting this week.

We also discussed assistance in restoring our energy infrastructure. I thank her for full support of our efforts to maintain the export grain initiative.

Of course, today we talked with Ursula von der Leyen about increasing pressure on the Iranian regime. Its complicity in Russian terror must be punished. And this issue will not only be raised at the level of our traditional partners. The whole world will know that the Iranian regime is helping Russia prolong this war, and thus prolonging the threats to the world caused by the Russian war itself. If it weren't for Iran's supply of weapons to the aggressor, we would already be closer to peace now. And this means — closer to resolving the food crisis. Closer to resolving the cost-of-life crisis. Closer to stabilizing the energy market. Closer to reliably securing us from Russia’s radioactive blackmail that it does not leave behind. Therefore, absolutely everyone who helps Russia prolong this war must also be held accountable for the consequences of this war along with Russia.

Tonight, the occupiers again used Iranian strike drones. There are shoot-downs. But unfortunately, there are also hits.

We also understand that the state-terrorist is concentrating its forces and means for a possible repetition of mass strikes on our infrastructure, primarily energy-related. For this, Russia needed Iranian rockets.

We are preparing to respond.

But please note as well: more frequently there are reports that no Kalibr carrier has come out into combat rotation in the Black Sea. This is a very significant result secured by our defenders. The less Russian Black Sea Fleet, the safer it is in the Black Sea. And certainly there will be a day when we can announce that we have provided Ukraine with full protection from Russian threats both at sea and in the air. I am confident of this.

Very harsh Russian attacks are continuing in Donetsk. The enemy suffers serious losses there, but regardless of everything, regardless of any losses, continues to push its mobilized men and mercenaries to their deaths.

I thank all our soldiers who endure this terrible pressure, who maintain steadfastness and heroically defend our positions.

In particular, today I would like to highlight the fighters of the 79th Separate Airborne Assault Brigade for their bravery and heroism in defending the Avdiivka direction.

Also, thank you to everyone who is involved in mitigating the consequences of Russian terrorist strikes on Kharkov, Zaporizhzhia, cities and communities of Dnipropetrovsk region, Mykolaiv. We will definitely drive out the occupiers, we will definitely guarantee security for all our cities and communities.

As of this evening in Kyiv and six regions power rationing continues. Over 4.5 million consumers are without electricity. The most now — in Kyiv and Kyiv region. It is indeed difficult.

This week I had several special meetings with government officials, representatives of energy companies and regional administration verticals regarding possible scenarios for the situation in energy. We are examining each scenario in detail and preparing appropriate actions.

No matter what terrorists want or demand, we must get through this winter and be even stronger in spring than now. Be even more prepared to liberate all our territory than now.

We set difficult goals every month and by passing them become even stronger.

Glory to everyone who fights and works for our victory!

Thank you to all who help!

Glory to Ukraine!"