Ukrainian President Calls for European Unity and Self-Reliance
Key Points from Zelensky’s Munich Speech
1. End of Guaranteed US Support
- Zelensky declared that the era of assured US backing for Europe is over.
- He urged European nations to take responsibility for their own security and future.
2. Call for a United European Army
- Proposed the creation of a continental army to strengthen Europe’s defense capabilities.
- Emphasized the need for a unified European foreign policy to counter external threats.
3. Warning Against US-Russia Deals
- Cautioned the US against striking agreements with Russia without Ukraine’s involvement.
- Stressed, “No decisions about Ukraine without Ukraine. No decisions about Europe without Europe.”
4. Concerns Over Trump-Putin Summit
- Expressed fears that Trump’s planned meeting with Putin could sideline Ukraine and Europe.
- Warned that Putin might use Trump as a “prop” in his geopolitical strategy, potentially inviting him to Russia’s WWII victory parade in May.
5. Demand for Security Guarantees
- Called for binding security guarantees from the US and Europe to prevent Russia from restarting the war after any peace deal.
- Argued that Putin cannot offer real security guarantees, as Russia’s regime relies on war to maintain power.
European Leaders Back Zelensky’s Calls
1. Scholz and Tusk Support Unity
- German Chancellor Olaf Scholz emphasized that peace can only be achieved if Ukraine’s sovereignty is secured.
- Polish Prime Minister Donald Tusk urged Europe to develop its own action plan for security, warning that “other global players will decide our future” if Europe fails to act.
2. NATO’s Role
- NATO chief Mark Rutte confirmed that discussions on security guarantees for Ukraine are progressing.
- European leaders are now in the “concrete planning phase” for potential security measures.
US Mixed Signals and Negotiations
1. Vance’s Assurance
- US Vice President JD Vance assured Zelensky of Washington’s commitment to a “durable, lasting peace.”
2. Pentagon’s Contradictory Statements
- Pentagon officials have sent mixed messages, including ruling out Ukraine’s NATO membership and full territorial recovery.
- This has sparked concerns in Kyiv and Europe about being forced into a unfavorable deal.
3. Rare Earths Negotiations
- Kyiv is in talks with the US over access to Ukraine’s rare earth mineral deposits in exchange for future security support.
Russian Military Advances
1. Territorial Gains in Donetsk
- Russia’s army claimed to have captured a village in Ukraine’s eastern Donetsk region.
- Moscow continues its slow but steady territorial gains in the area, aiming to cut off key supply routes.
Zelensky’s speech highlighted the urgent need for European unity and self-reliance amid shifting geopolitical dynamics. With US support uncertain and Russia advancing militarily, Europe faces critical challenges in shaping its security landscape and ensuring Ukraine’s future.