Volodymyr Zelensky said that Ukraine has appealed to the European Union for the immediate accession via a new special procedure.

Kyiv, Ukraine:

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky on Monday compelled the European Union to grant his country "immediate" membership, as Russia's assault against the pro-Western government went into its fifth day.

"We appeal to the European Union for the immediate accession of Ukraine via a new special procedure," the 44-year-old leader said in a new video address. 

"Our goal is to be together with all Europeans and, most importantly, to be on an equal footing. I'm sure it's fair. I'm sure it's possible."

"We have taken a decision which is not easy from the moral point of view, but which is useful from the point of view of our defences," he said.

He once again thanked the West for its support. "Support of our anti-war coalition is unconditional and unprecedented," he said. 

"Each of us is a warrior," he said. "And I am sure that each of us will win."

Russia's invasion of Ukraine has sent shockwaves around the world. 

Ukraine forces, backed by Western arms, have managed to slow the advance of the Russian army.