Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskiy on Monday asked the European Union to allow Ukraine to gain membership under a special procedure immediately as it defends itself from invasion by Russian forces.

“Our goal is to be with all Europeans and, most importantly, to be equal.

“I’m sure that’s fair. I am sure we deserve it,” he said in a video speech shared on social media.

102 civilians feared dead in Ukraine since Russian invasion – U.N.

This came as Russia’s assault against the pro-Western country went into its fifth day.

Zelenskiy said: “we appeal to the European Union for the immediate accession of Ukraine via a new special procedure.’’

(Reuters/NAN)