Ukraine's PM Shmyhal thanks Croatia for 'comprehensive support' to his country

"Plenkovic and Shymhal discussed Croatia's political support to Ukraine's EU membership bid, and also Croatia's reception of Ukrainian refugees," Hina said,

Plenković later tweeted that he "regrets that the number of victims in Ukraine is growing due to the Russian aggression." Schmyhal also tweeted his thanks to Croatia.

"Croatia supports Ukraine on the way to EU membership. During our talk today PM Andrej Plenkovic assured that they stand with Ukraine. Discussed strengthening sanctions against Russia. Grateful for comprehensive support of Ukrainians," Schmyhal wrote.

Earlier this month, Croatia's civil protection service sent five trucks carrying humanitarian aid to Ukraine, only a few days after the government approved sending a €16.5m shipment of weapons and other military equipment which they said was "sufficient to equip four infantry brigades." In addition, Croatia has received close to 2,600 Ukrainian refugees so far.

EU leaders are due to gather on Thursday and Friday for an informal summit at Versailles outside of Paris to discuss the situation in Ukraine, the response to Ukraine's EU membership bid, and also ways to make Europe less dependent on Russian energy exports.