President of Ukraine Volodymyr Zelensky addressed the nation, informing about an important decision by a U.S. Senate committee regarding the confiscation of Russian assets and the situation with the aircraft and prisoner exchange.

"Dear Ukrainians,

700th day of this war – a very difficult day.

First. Called Umyrov, Zaluzhnyi, Shapta, Budanov, and Maliuk – briefed on the situation with the aircraft and prisoner exchange.

Clearly, Russians are playing with the lives of Ukrainian prisoners, with the feelings of relatives, and with our society's emotions.

We need to establish all clear facts. As much as possible considering that the plane crash occurred on Russian territory – out of our control.

"Facts" – is the key word now.

Heard from the Chief Commander and General Staff regarding the use of air forces. GUR is investigating the fate of all prisoners. The Security Service of Ukraine is investigating all circumstances. I instructed the Minister for Foreign Affairs to inform partners about available data in Ukraine. Our state will insist on international investigation.

Second. There were briefings today regarding the situation at the front – key direction. Special attention – Avdiivka, other positions in Donetsk, and Kupyansk direction.

We are doing everything to strengthen our soldiers.

Third. There is an important decision by a U.S. Senate committee regarding the confiscation of Russian assets – a completely just step. Russia should feel the real cost of its aggression most, and we in Ukraine are truly grateful to everyone who helps with searching, freezing, and preparing for the confiscation of state-owned Russian assets and individuals associated with it. I thank all in the U.S. Congress who care about justice.

Fourth. Spoke with the German Chancellor. Topics completely obvious. Thanked for the relations we have achieved, for support and cooperation. Very important that Germany firmly and principledly protects Europe – freedom and stability on our continent. The democratic order in Europe can be preserved only if Germany continues to be a reliable defender of democracy.

We discussed with Mr. Chancellor further interaction. This concerns our defense as well, primarily the protection from Russian missiles and drones. Germany has already saved thousands of Ukrainian lives. Also preparing new joint steps.

Of course, also talked about economy and political cooperation at EU level. Particularly this concerns macrofinance.

I am grateful to Olaf, Mr. Chancellor, for the readiness to work on a security agreement based on the appropriate declaration of the "Group of Seven."

One more thing.

700 days of full-scale war – this Russian scum's war against Ukraine and life itself. Another Russian strike on Odessa – rockets, "Shaheds." Shelling of Kherson and the region. Nikopol, Dnipro, other cities in Dnipropetrovsk Oblast. Our Donetsk.

Ukraine has come a long way. Held out. And must defend itself. Must defend – our people, interests of our state.

Just now I signed an order to award our soldiers with state awards. 243 of our military from various brigades – combat brigades. And in total so far more than 69 thousand defenders of Ukraine's Security and Defense Forces have been awarded: armed forces, National Guard, border guards, intelligence, police, and other elements of our defense.

I am grateful to each one for their steadfastness.

Glory to our people!

Glory to Ukraine!"