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For more, we can bring in now Charles Michel, the former EU Council President and of course the former Prime Minister of Belgium.

You're also just back from New York where you met President Zelensky.

Tell us about the significance of this attack that took place this very weekend as Friedrich Merz was visiting.

There is no doubt that Russia is trying to increase the pressure against Ukraine and against the European Union.

And there is only one possible answer in my view, that's more support for Ukraine.

We know from the one that the Ukraine are brave, they are fighting for the future, but also for our principles and for our freedoms.

And that's why I think that we need to be clear, we need to be strong.

It means more financial support, more military collaboration with Ukraine.

And how significant is it, this 1.3 billion euro package from the Germans?

It is very good that Germany is making a clear choice.

And I have no doubt that in the month to come, and certainly next year, with a lot of elections within the EU, it will be very important to send a very clear signal that we do not give up, that we know what is at stake.

And it's important that the political leaders all across the EU understand are clear with the voters, with the citizens, explaining that what we do for Ukraine is not something for Ukraine.

It's for Ukraine and it's for our common future.

And we've been hearing that the Americans are trying to broker some sort of deal again between Kiev and Moscow.

What are you hearing? Were you hearing any signs of progress in New York last week?

No, I'm very doubtful.

I think there are a lot of ambiguities coming from the United States, ambiguities towards Russia.

I do not feel reassured.

I don't feel represented by the Americans when it is about the future of Ukraine and the future of the European continent.

That's why, you know, there's no doubt in my opinion.

that this ambition of European sovereignty, that's not something on paper, that's not something in theory.

It means that we need to make decisions for our economic basis, because that's the key condition, but also for more European capabilities in the field of defence, so that we have a seat around the table and that we are not just on the menu.

And what was the message that Zelensky made to you?

He's strong, and I have to say that I'm really impressed by his courage.

I think that he's leading the country.