Zelensky outlines key challenges for Ukraine

KIEV, Oct. 7 (Xinhua) -- Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky on Friday outlined the key challenges for Ukraine amid its conflict with Russia, the presidential press service reported.

Speaking via video link at the informal meeting of the European Council, Zelensky said that the main challenge for Ukraine is the physical protection of its energy facilities from Russian strikes.

Ukraine needs enough air defense systems to prevent possible attacks on its energy infrastructure, he noted.

Another challenge for Kiev is a demilitarization of the Zaporizhzhia nuclear power plant in southern Ukraine and the restoration of its functioning, Zelensky said.

Post-conflict reconstruction is the third important task for the government, the Ukrainian leader noted, voicing his appreciation for those countries that have already started working under Ukraine's Fast Recovery Plan.

The informal European Council meeting was held in Prague, the Czech Republic, on Friday to discuss the situation in Ukraine, as well as energy and economic issues.