Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has made a heartfelt appeal for his country to become part of the European Union during an address to EU lawmakers.

"This is our Europe, these are our rules, this is our way of life. And for Ukraine, it's a way home, a way to its home," Zelensky said, referencing Ukraine's aim to join the European Union.

"I am here in order to defend our people's way home," he added.

The Ukrainian President underlined that Ukraine shares values with Europe, rather than with Russia, which he said is trying to take Ukraine back in time.

It was an emotional message designed to try to connect with EU parliamentarians.