Volodymyr Zelensky, the President of Ukraine, addressed the Munich Security Conference with a powerful message. He expressed concerns over the current geopolitical landscape, emphasizing the need for Europe to take charge of its own security. Zelensky warned that the era of guaranteed American support for Europe is coming to an end. He urged European nations to form a unified army and foreign policy in response to this shift.
Zelensky opened his speech by voicing his unease regarding the US president's decision to prioritize communication with Russian President Vladimir Putin over him. He cautioned that it would be even "more dangerous" if former US President Donald Trump were to meet with Putin before addressing Ukrainian concerns. Zelensky stressed that Ukraine must be included in any decisions affecting its future, stating emphatically, "No decisions about Ukraine without Ukraine."
“Ukraine will never accept deals made behind our backs without our involvement. And the same rule should apply to all of Europe,” – Zelensky
The Ukrainian leader also highlighted the potential influence of Russia over NATO.
“Right now, the most influential member of NATO seems to be Putin – because his whims have the power to block NATO decisions,” – Zelensky
He reiterated the importance of European involvement in matters concerning the continent's security and future. He called for a united European army and foreign policy, emphasizing that Europe must have a voice in its own affairs.
“No decisions about Ukraine without Ukraine. No decisions about Europe without Europe. Europe must have a seat at the table when decisions about Europe are being made,” – Zelensky
Zelensky recognized the shifting dynamics between Europe and the United States, acknowledging that traditional support from America may no longer be reliable.
“Yesterday here in Munich, the US vice president made it clear – decades of the old relationship between Europe and America are ending. From now on, things will be different, and Europe needs to adjust to that,” – Zelensky
He further commented on Trump's recent conversation with Putin, noting a lack of emphasis on European involvement, which he found concerning.
“A few days ago, President Trump told me about his conversation with Putin. Not once did he mention that America needs Europe at that table. That says a lot,” – Zelensky
Polish Prime Minister Donald Tusk echoed Zelensky's sentiments, urging Europe to develop an actionable plan regarding Ukraine's security and future. Tusk warned of the risks of inaction, suggesting that other global powers might dictate Europe's destiny if it fails to act decisively.
“This plan must be prepared now. There’s no time to lose,” – Tusk
Zelensky also conveyed a stark warning about Putin's ambitions, accusing the Russian leader of attempting to dominate through direct negotiations with Trump.
“Next Putin will try to get the US president standing on Red Square on May 9 this year, not as a respected leader, but as a prop in his own performance, we don’t need that,” – Zelensky
In his concluding remarks, Zelensky stressed his belief that Putin fears Trump, a sentiment he communicated directly to the former US president.
“I told Trump that Putin is afraid of him and he heard me. And now Putin knows,” – Zelensky
