Praises Ankara's Political And Military Support, Kyiv Mayor Klitschko: Turkey Proves Ukraine's True Friend

Kyiv Mayor Vitali Klitschko. (Source: kyivcity.gov.ua)

JAKARTA - Former heavyweight boxing champion and now Kyiv Mayor Vitali Klitschko said Turkey had proved Ukraine's true friend in difficult times like today.

Speaking to Anadolu Agency (AA) in an interview published Friday, Vitali Klitschko said he was grateful to Turkey for the support given to his country amid the Russian invasion.

"We can see who the real friends of Ukraine are in these difficult times," he said, as quoted by Daily Sabah April 16.

Despite the fact that the Ukrainian army regained control of the Kyiv region in early April, stringent security measures continue in the capital and surrounding areas.

He pointed out that Ukraine has gone through difficult times because of the Russian attack and that international aid is very important for his country in this period.

"We would like to thank all countries, whether European or neighboring countries, who have taken a positive approach towards Ukraine, in support of peace," Klitschko said.

Underlining the fact that Ukraine and its people support peace and do not attack anyone, Klitschko said his country has always supported peace.

"Ukraine has always been a country supporting peace. The Ukrainian people have not acted aggressively against anyone, but military tensions continue today. While airstrikes against our cities and civilians continue, we have no other choice but to defend our country," he said. .

Stressing that his country's aim is to maintain peace, Klitschko thanked all those who support the restoration of peace in Ukraine.

Ukraine needs humanitarian, medical, military and political assistance, he said, adding: "We are not only defending our own family, our home, our country and the economic situation in Ukraine, but also the principles supported by all democratic countries.

Expressing that he would particularly like to thank Turkey among the countries that support his country, Klitschko said: "We are very grateful to Turkey for its support in the political and military fields, this is very important. We can see who Turkey's true friends are. Ukraine in these difficult times."