European Order of Merit Ceremony: Honoring Zelensky, Sandu, and European Leaders
During a recent session of the European Parliament in Strasbourg, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky and Moldovan President Maia Sandu were honored with the prestigious European Order of Merit, a significant recognition of their contributions to European integration and values. Notable figures like former Polish President Lech Wałęsa and former German Chancellor Angela Merkel were also among the initial recipients of this award.
President Sandu delivered a powerful speech in Parliament, dedicating the honor to the Moldovan people who have long resisted oligarchic influence, authoritarian politics, and Russian interference. She emphasized Moldova's determination to join the European Union despite facing challenges such as Russian pressure and attacks on its energy infrastructure, urging the EU to expedite Moldova's accession process.
Former President Wałęsa, known for his role in Poland's fight against Soviet-backed communism, also addressed Parliament during the ceremony. He underscored the significance of Ukraine's battle against Russian aggression and called on Europe to stand by Ukraine in safeguarding its sovereignty and independence. Wałęsa drew parallels between Ukraine's current struggle and Poland's own fight for freedom in the 1980s, emphasizing the need for European solidarity in the face of geopolitical threats.
For more information about the ceremony and the list of recipients, you can watch the event recording.