Prove you are with us: Ukraine prez Voldomyr Zelensky at EU parliament

Addressing a special session of the European Parliament, on a day when at least 10 people were killed in a missile strike on the central square of Kharkiv, on the sixth day of invasion by Russia, Zelensky sought the support that will let life conquer death.

"I cannot say good morning or good day, because every day for somebody this is not a good day," Zelensky began to a huge round of applause by member nation representative, who watched him on a huge screen.

"We have united all Europe but I did not want to be united at this cost. This is a tragedy for all of us. We had five days of full-scale invasion," he said.

Speaking over a video link to a standing ovation, the Ukrainian leader slammed Russia for targeting civilians, mentioning the missile attack at a square in Kharkiv.

His eyes were moist as he talked about the 16 children killed on Monday. "This moment is tragic for all of us. Kharkiv is the city that has the most universities. Two cruise missiles hit the square," he said.

An Indian student, Naveen, who hailed from Haveri in Karnataka, was also killed in the shelling. Zelensky said Ukraine wanted to be an equal partner in European Union. "We often say we shall overcome every barrier... I am sure we shall be victorious," he said.

"We are fighting for our land and our freedom. Nobody shall occupy our country," he said. "We have proved we are strong. Europe, please prove you are together with us, prove you will not repel us. Please prove you are real Europeans, then life will concur death," he added.

As Zelensky's name was announced, members of the European Parliament gave a standing ovation to him, clapping in support.

Almost a minute long clapping was also witnessed at the end of his address. Even earlier there were emotional scenes at the opening of the EU parliament's special session debating the conflict in Ukraine.

It began with a standing ovation for the Ambassador of Ukraine, with MEPs taking to their feet and wearing t-shirts with Ukrainian flags on their back. The President of the European parliament, Roberta Metsola, thanked President Zelensky, who joined via video link.

"Mr President thank you for showing the world what it means to stand up. Thank you for reminding us about the dangers of complacency," she said in a speech, where she praised the heroism of the Ukrainian people defending their country.

Mesola also said the parliament welcomes Ukraine's application to become an EU member and would work on making that a reality.

Tuesday is the sixth day of the Russian attack on Ukraine, as satellite links showed columns of Russian forces advancing towards the country. Bombings and shellings have ravaged all parts of the country.