Ukrainians expect EU to protect country's 'independence and territorial integrity'

[KoKo]

4. Not sure if it's a bid for expediting NATO protection going forward....

Seems to be, though, from this part of the speech:

Of course, all of us would have wished to sign up the Agreement under different, more comfortable circumstances. On the other hand, the external aggression faced by Ukraine gives another strong reason for this crucial step.

By signing this Agreement, Ukraine takes enormous commitment in terms of reforms. But it is also a document of joint responsibility.

So, in the spirit of the political association, we also expect that the EU will make everything to support our sovereign choice and protect Ukraine's independence and territorial integrity.

A lot will depend on the European solidarity with these three countries that paid a high price to be in Europe and with Europe. Will Europe be free or partly free? Will it have to worry about more wars and annexation? Or will it be confident in future? These aren't idle questions. And the answer will depend on success or failure of the documents that we will sign today.