President of Ukraine Volodymyr Zelensky addressed the nation, speaking about holding a military cabinet and discussing certain steps towards approaching the European Union.

"I wish health to all dear Ukrainians!

Briefly on this day.

First. I held a military cabinet, a special format of work with the leaders of our defense sector, our commanders, intelligence, and Office staff. Only what is directly necessary for managing the front lines and ensuring active operations by Ukraine to protect our state from Russian terror was discussed. This was very substantive.

And our actions will be strong. We are preparing the boys. And we are eagerly awaiting the delivery of weapons promised by partners. And we are approaching victory as much as possible. And unity spirit — to the maximum extent. Efficiency — also to the maximum extent. Preparation — likewise, to the maximum.

Secondly. The defense industry complex.

Today in Mariinsky Palace, where we always honor those who have done the most for Ukraine, we celebrated Labor Day of our defense industry workers for the first time.

It is quite unfair that until now there has been no special day in Ukraine to honor all those who create Ukrainian weapons, ammunition, and equipment. Those who make our rockets, which so brilliantly demonstrated themselves in the Black Sea area a year ago on April 13 when they stopped the Russian Black Sea flagship's maritime route. These are people who manufacture our artillery — 155 millimeters, currently on the battlefield and about which we only hear positive feedback from our fighters and… clearly what kind of feedback the occupier has.

Of course, most of these positives cannot be shared yet regarding our weapons and homemade ammunition not just during the full-scale war but also in the years before it. But the entire country and society owe gratitude to those professionals who safeguard and develop our defense industry complex. Who are capable of doing everything for Ukraine — from ammunition to rockets, from artillery to drones.

The day before I signed a decree establishing Labor Day of Defense Industry Workers in Ukraine. On this very day when Neptune hit Moscow. But we thank not only for the missiles but also for dozens of other types of weapons and equipment supplied to defense.

I had the honor to award representatives from the industry. And I am confident that Ukrainian defense industry will continue to develop as it has over recent years — in constant growth, expanding product range and capabilities.

Thirdly, what is important today. Eurointegration.

I held a meeting with government officials and representatives of the Verkhovna Rada regarding certain steps towards approaching the European Union, legislative measures, and implementation of adopted changes.

Our country's goal is absolutely achievable. Ukraine will be integrated into all EU institutions and practices, gaining full membership status. We are fully prepared from our side.

And one more thing.

I signed decrees awarding our soldiers. Four decrees. 349 military servicemen were awarded state honors. Among them — 45 air force fighters, 152 — Navy personnel, and 152 soldiers — ground forces.

Today especially I want to honor our fighters from the OSUV "Tavria" under General Tarnavskyi who are fighting in Donbas. Specifically, marines of the 35th separate brigade and artillerymen of the 55th separate brigade. You boys, as always, are effective! Thank you!

I thank fighters from OSUV "Odessa" under General Moskalov — the powerful 63rd mechanized brigade that is hitting occupiers hard for their strikes on our cities and villages in the Southern direction. And I also want to honor today soldiers of the 126th separate brigade of TO forces — aerorangers. Thank you, boys, your attention becomes accuracy of our artillery.

The enemy will definitely suffer losses for every strike on Ukrainians.

Glory to all who are fighting now for Ukraine!

I thank everyone working towards our defense and victory!

Thank you to everyone helping out!

Glory to Ukraine!"