As the conflict with Russia drags on, Zelensky emphasizes the need for Europe to fortify its defenses and ensure involvement in future peace negotiations.
Army of Europe: Zelensky Calls for New Military Alliance Amid US Doubts
Army of Europe: Zelensky Calls for New Military Alliance Amid US Doubts
Ukrainian President urges for an independent European army as fears grow over declining US support.
In a bold statement at the Munich Security Conference, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky called for the establishment of a so-called "army of Europe" to better equip the continent in the face of increasing geopolitical tensions. He expressed concerns over the waning support from the United States, suggesting that the traditional partnership may be shifting, particularly in light of remarks made by US Vice-President JD Vance regarding America's evolving role in European affairs.
Zelensky's address pointed to an urgent necessity for Europe to adapt and take greater responsibility for its security. He highlighted the importance of Ukraine's inclusion in any negotiated resolution between the US and Russia, particularly after recent communications between Donald Trump and Vladimir Putin. "We will never accept deals made behind our backs without our involvement," said Zelensky.
Just hours after Zelensky's comments, discussions emerged involving the US Secretary of State Marco Rubio and Russia's foreign minister, which were framed as efforts to rekindle dialogue amidst ongoing military confrontations. The Russian foreign ministry indicated that the recent call was initiated by the US, although further specifics regarding Ukraine were sparse.
The international community is reevaluating its strategies as Trump engaged in a phone call with Putin—an exchange notable for breaking a lengthy silence between the two nations. Trump's advisor Keith Kellogg pointedly remarked that Europe may be consulted but will likely not be a participant in future negotiations, a sentiment that is likely to concern various European leaders, including Zelensky.
This tension comes as Trump seeks to navigate access to Ukraine's natural resources while the international response to Russia's military actions remains uncertain. Pete Hegseth, the US Defence Secretary, underscored that the invasion of Ukraine mandates a reinvigorated NATO, asserting that the days of unquestioned American support for Europe "are over."
Within this broader context, Zelensky's assertion that Europe must develop its military capabilities reflects ongoing dialogues led by various European leaders, including French President Emmanuel Macron. While the idea of a unified European army has met resistance from figures like EU foreign policy chief Kaja Kallas, the conversation continues as leaders like Germany's Olaf Scholz demand that peace efforts respect Ukraine's sovereignty.
The stakes remain particularly high as the three-year anniversary of the full-scale Russian invasion approaches, prompting Zelensky to reaffirm his stance that Ukraine’s potential NATO membership remains on the table. He stressed the importance of involved European voices in the discussions over Ukraine's future, a sentiment echoed by Poland's Prime Minister Donald Tusk, who warned of the risks of leaving critical decisions to external powers.
As the geopolitical landscape shifts, the resilience of the European alliance will be tested like never before.
Zelensky's address pointed to an urgent necessity for Europe to adapt and take greater responsibility for its security. He highlighted the importance of Ukraine's inclusion in any negotiated resolution between the US and Russia, particularly after recent communications between Donald Trump and Vladimir Putin. "We will never accept deals made behind our backs without our involvement," said Zelensky.
Just hours after Zelensky's comments, discussions emerged involving the US Secretary of State Marco Rubio and Russia's foreign minister, which were framed as efforts to rekindle dialogue amidst ongoing military confrontations. The Russian foreign ministry indicated that the recent call was initiated by the US, although further specifics regarding Ukraine were sparse.
The international community is reevaluating its strategies as Trump engaged in a phone call with Putin—an exchange notable for breaking a lengthy silence between the two nations. Trump's advisor Keith Kellogg pointedly remarked that Europe may be consulted but will likely not be a participant in future negotiations, a sentiment that is likely to concern various European leaders, including Zelensky.
This tension comes as Trump seeks to navigate access to Ukraine's natural resources while the international response to Russia's military actions remains uncertain. Pete Hegseth, the US Defence Secretary, underscored that the invasion of Ukraine mandates a reinvigorated NATO, asserting that the days of unquestioned American support for Europe "are over."
Within this broader context, Zelensky's assertion that Europe must develop its military capabilities reflects ongoing dialogues led by various European leaders, including French President Emmanuel Macron. While the idea of a unified European army has met resistance from figures like EU foreign policy chief Kaja Kallas, the conversation continues as leaders like Germany's Olaf Scholz demand that peace efforts respect Ukraine's sovereignty.
The stakes remain particularly high as the three-year anniversary of the full-scale Russian invasion approaches, prompting Zelensky to reaffirm his stance that Ukraine’s potential NATO membership remains on the table. He stressed the importance of involved European voices in the discussions over Ukraine's future, a sentiment echoed by Poland's Prime Minister Donald Tusk, who warned of the risks of leaving critical decisions to external powers.
As the geopolitical landscape shifts, the resilience of the European alliance will be tested like never before.
