KIEV: Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has warned of "greater hostile activity" by Russia in the coming days, as Kiev awaits news on its bid to join the European Union (EU).

On Sunday, the President said in his nightly video address to the nation: "A historic week begins tomorrow. Since 1991, it has been one of the most significant. In a week, we will learn whether Ukraine has been granted candidate status by the European Union.

"And in such a week, we should expect Russia to be more aggressive. Specifically, demonstratively. Not only against Ukraine, but also against the rest of Europe. "We're getting ready. We notify partners. And we thank everyone whose strength today ensures our victory tomorrow." Only four days after Russia invaded Kiev on February 24, Zelensky signed an official appeal to the EU requesting Ukraine's accession through a new special procedure.

On June 11, European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen stated that the EU will complete its assessment of Ukraine's eligibility for EU membership by the end of that week. During her April visit to Kiev, Von der Leyen presented the Ukrainian President with the EU membership questionnaire.

The first part of the document was delivered to the EU on May 9, while the second part was delivered on April 18.

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