Zelenskyy Advocates For European Armed Forces Amid Changing US Position On Ukraine

(MENAFN- Live Mint) Ukraine's President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has called for the creation of an“armed forces of Europe,” citing concerns that the United States may no longer be a reliable supporter of European security. Speaking at the Munich Security Conference, Zelenskyy argued that Ukraine's resistance against Russia has laid the groundwork for a unified European military force.

“I really believe that time has come,” Zelenskyy stated.“The armed forces of Europe must be created.”

He emphasised that his proposal does not aim to replace NATO but rather to ensure that Europe contributes equally to transatlantic security.“This is about making Europe's contribution to our partnership equal to America's,” he clarified.

Concerns over US role in peace talks

Zelenskyy also expressed unease over recent discussions between US President Donald Trump and Russian President Vladimir Putin regarding the war in Ukraine. Trump 's special envoy for Ukraine and Russia , Gen. Keith Kellogg , indicated that European nations might be excluded from any potential peace negotiations.

“You can have the Ukrainians, the Russians, and clearly the Americans at the table talking,” Kellogg said, implying that European participation was unlikely. When pressed on this issue, he remarked,“I think that's not going to happen.”

Zelenskyy pushed back against the idea of being sidelined, saying,“Ukraine will never accept deals made behind our backs without our involvement, and the same rule should apply to all of Europe.”

For Zelenskyy, the solution lies in a stronger Europe that can stand on its own.

“The old days are over when America supported Europe just because it always had,” he said.“Now, as we fight this war and lay the groundwork for peace and security, we must build the armed forces of Europe.”

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