Zelensky says expects Ukraine to join EU, NATO

MOSCOW. May 2 (Interfax) - Ukrainian President Vladimir Zelensky has said he expects Ukraine to become a member of the European Union and NATO.

"Europe, part of which to be is an honor for every nation, is indeed a dream. A dream that unites us," Ukrainian media quoted Zelensky as saying in his video address to the participants in a conference marking 20 years of the Czech Republic's membership of the European Union on Tuesday.

"I am sure, it will soon become a reality for Ukraine," he said.

"I am confident that, during our lifetime, the same conference will be held but devoted to twenty years of Ukraine in the European community - twenty years of our full membership in the EU. And already in June we can begin this pathway by the actual start of Ukraine's accession negotiations. I am thankful to everyone who helps!" Zelensky said.

While visiting the National Defense University in Kiev together with NATO Secretary General Jens Stoltenberg, Zelensky also said he hoped Ukraine would join the alliance one day.