In a recent interview with the LETA agency, Latvian Ambassador to Ukraine, Andrejs Pildegovičs, stated that President Volodymyr Zelensky understands that this year will be pivotal for Ukraine. He emphasized that Zelensky's remarks at the Davos Forum, where he sharply criticized Europe for its insufficient response to Russia, should be viewed within the context of the ongoing challenges facing Ukraine. This winter has been one of the harshest in the last decade, with the Ukrainian population enduring Arctic-like conditions, including temperatures dropping below minus 20 degrees Celsius, largely due to Russia's destruction of Ukraine's cogeneration plants.

Pildegovičs pointed out that Zelensky recognizes Europe as Ukraine's closest ally, and his speech at Davos was a desperate call for support amid the current energy crisis. He highlighted that the need for robust European responses is critical, especially in areas such as air defense and financial assistance. The ambassador noted that sustaining support from Europe is vital for Ukraine's ability to endure the hardships it is currently facing.

He also acknowledged that the European loan of 90 billion euros to Ukraine came at a crucial time, reinforcing the importance of international support. The situation reflects a delicate interplay of international relations, emphasizing the increasing pressure on European nations to step up their support for Ukraine as it navigates through these challenging conditions, aligning with the urgency expressed by its leadership.