Ukraine President Volodymyr Zelensky has reportedly told Boris Johnson that the next 24 hours will be crucial as he leads the defence of his country against the invasion by Russia.
Mr Zelenksy made the comments in a phone call with the the UK Prime Minister Boris Johnson on Sunday evening, reports the BBC.
The remarks came hours after President Vladimir Putin ordered Russian nuclear forces put on high alert in response to what he called 'aggressive statements' by leading NATO powers. The order meant that Putin wants Russia's nuclear weapons prepared for increased readiness to launch and raises the threat that Moscow's invasion of Ukraine and the West's response to it could boil over into nuclear warfare.
Amid escalating tensions between Russia and Ukraine, Zelensky on Sunday spoke with Johnson and Polish President Andrzej Duda and agreed on further joint steps to counter the “aggressor”.
“Talked to UK Prime Minister @BorisJohnson and Poland President @AndrzejDuda about the current security situation. Agreed on further joint steps to counter the aggressor. Anti-war coalition in action!,” Zelenskyy tweeted.
According to UK government spokesperson, Mr Johnson praised Mr Zelensky's leadership since Russia's invasion during the call.
Mr Johnson added the UK would do all it can to make sure defensive aid from the UK and its allies reaches Ukraine.
Zelensky also had a phone conversation with European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen.
“Also had a phone conversation with @vonderleyen. Talked about concrete decisions on strengthening Ukraine’s defense capabilities, macro-financial assistance and Ukraine’s membership in the #EU,” Zelenskyy wrote in a tweet.
