Zelensky calls for 'real' talks on Ukraine joining the EU

Ukrainian president Volodymyr Zelensky on Thursday told EU leaders that starting "real negotiations on Ukraine's accession" to the European Union is key for "motivating our people in the fight against Russia."

"Ukrainians need to see the EU getting closer," Zelensky said, according to a transcript supplied to the press.

Approving the plan for membership talks "could greatly support our people and send the right signal to the whole of Europe," he told the EU summit in Brussels, via videolink.