President of Ukraine Volodymyr Zelensky addressed the nation, speaking about his working trip to Odessa and an away meeting of the General Staff.

"I wish you good health, dear Ukrainians!

Today — a working trip to our Odessa.

Here I thanked our soldiers for defending the region and all of Ukraine. In particular, I visited the hospital where we have wounded defenders. Wished them a speedy recovery. Had the honor to present state awards. Thanked our doctors.

Conducted a special and lengthy meeting in Odessa regarding security and social situation in the region. Regional leadership, military, law enforcement.

The region is a priority from all perspectives. It's precisely Odesa that is one of the main pillars of safety for our entire south, and thus, the whole country.

Very important results are being achieved in Odesa by the State Security Service in countering Russian saboteurs.

There was a report from General Moskalov regarding the situation in areas of responsibility of OSUV "Odesa". We thoroughly analyzed how to strengthen defense.

We also thoroughly discussed economic issues, job opportunities, social security.

Conducted an away meeting of the General Staff. Constant attention to the front. Reports from commanders — "Khortytsia", "Tavria", Golovkom. Special reports by heads of SBU and GUR. Details will follow later. Special attention was given to our grain corridor, security in the Black Sea.

The world knows how fundamental a role our maritime grain export plays for food security. And overall security in the Black Sea, compliance with international law regarding navigation — this is a globally important security factor. All maritime countries around the world now see what could threaten their ports and sea areas if Russia blocks navigation in the Black Sea.

I will give just one example. Currently, of three ports that were agreed upon within the framework of the Black Sea Grain Initiative, the "Pivdenne" port is effectively blocked. Over 1.5 million tons of agricultural products are stockpiled in one "Pivdenne". And this grain is expected by at least ten countries around the world, including Turkey, Egypt, Bangladesh, China. Clearly: the less food reaches these countries and regions, the higher prices for food there will be, and more people lose from their family budgets.

So blocking one port in Ukraine creates extremely serious risks for different nations. And particularly for those with whom Russia is still trying to play politics.

And I thank everyone around the world who helps us increase security space in the Black Sea, who pressures Russia to unblock food supply.

Today in Odessa, I also held a meeting on developing our port infrastructure.

And one more thing.

We are working so that the second half of this week is meaningful for our relations with partners. Our internationalists do everything to end this week with news important for Ukraine.

And now I thank the United States of America, personally President Biden, both parties in Congress and every American — everyone who values freedom — for a new defense package for our soldiers. Missiles for "Patriots", missiles for "HIMARS", artillery and other very necessary weapons for us. Necessary right now!

Glory to all our soldiers fighting for Ukraine, on combat posts, on combat missions. Thank you everyone who works for our country!

Thank you, Odessa, for this day!

Glory to Ukraine!»