President of Ukraine Volodymyr Zelensky addressed the nation, speaking about his meeting with France's new Minister of Foreign Affairs and online talks with leaders of Bulgaria’s parliamentary coalition.

"I wish health to all dear Ukrainians,

Today I held several international meetings. First in an online format – with the leaders of Bulgaria's parliamentary coalition. Leading political forces. Our relations. Our common security – for everyone in Europe. A good and productive discussion. I am grateful for understanding – understanding that Russian aggression is a threat to the happiness and prosperity of all European nations.

Today, I also met with France's new Minister of Foreign Affairs. It is very symbolic that Mr. Minister’s first visit is precisely to Ukraine at this time when Russia tries various ways to increase the number of strikes against Ukraine and bypass our air defense system. I am grateful to all countries – and especially to France – for significantly strengthening our air shield, for constant support on the battlefield for our soldiers, help to our people.

Today we discussed our defense needs, including joint production of drones, artillery, and further strengthening of our air defense. I informed about work regarding the Peace Formula. Thankful to France for active participation in this global effort. We are already preparing for the forum in Davos. For presenting our position, our opportunities – common opportunities for everyone around the world who strives to leave their children a world where stability reigns and freedom matters. Our values, not the whims of one dictator or another.

And, of course, gratitude to our soldiers. I would like to especially highlight today the soldiers of our National Guard, together with all defense and security forces, who are defending Ukrainian positions extraordinarily courageously and steadfastly.

15th Brigade of the National Guard – Senior Soldier Valeriy Semenets and Junior Sergeant Serhiy Kovalev, soldiers of an operational unit. I thank you for your strength! 3rd Operational Brigade – soldier Vitalii Sachuk, soldier Mykola Nagaychuk, soldier Yuriy Kostyuta. 14th Brigade – Junior Sergeant Volodymyr Oliinyk, Senior Sergeant Vasyl Chernevych. I thank you, boys!

I would also like to highlight separately the soldiers of the National Guard's Special Purpose Center "Omega", especially the boys of the 1st detachment who are effectively performing tasks on the Avdiivka axis and all soldiers of the 3rd detachment "Omega" fighting on the Melitopol axis, reinforcing defense units. I thank you for destroying the enemy, boys! I thank all your brothers-in-arms, everyone who knows exactly that independence is not a reward. Independence is won by the brave.

I thank everyone in Ukraine who is just like that! And everyone around the world who helps our country!

Glory to Ukraine!"