Zelensky: Europe needs to rise so that the world does not ignore it
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky directed sharp criticism at Europe, saying that “the continent needs to rise up and learn how to take care of itself so that the world cannot ignore it.”
The day after Donald Trump assumed the presidency of the United States In a speech he delivered at the World Economic Forum in Davos on Tuesday, Zelensky compared Washington’s strength to what he called the “weakness of the European Union,” according to what was reported by the magazine. Politico" European.
Zelensky added: “Twenty hours ago, President Trump was inaugurated in Washington, and now everyone is waiting to find out what he will do next, noting that most of the world Now he thinks, what will happen to his relationship with America? What will happen to alliances? And for support? And for trade? How does President Trump plan to end the wars?"
He continued: "But no one is asking such questions about Europe, and we need to be frank about that".< /p>
He referred to the annual Shangri-La inter-governmental security dialogue held in Singapore last year, adding " The American delegation classified the Asia-Pacific region as a top priority, followed by the Middle East, then Europe, and that was during the era of the Biden administration, which was more committed to supporting America’s traditional European allies compared to the Trump administration.
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Zelensky continued: “Europe cannot afford to be in second or third place among its allies. If that happens, the world will begin to advance without Europe, and this is a world that will not be comfortable or useful.” To the Europeans.”
He renewed his thanks for Europe’s assistance in Kiev’s war against Russia, noting that “it is not clear whether Europe will even have a seat at the table when the war ends.” Against our country.”
Zelensky asked: “Will Trump take Europe into consideration?” Does NATO see a necessity? Will he respect the institutions of the European Union?”, adding, “Europe deserves to be more than just a spectator.”
He said: “Europe needs to determine the terms of those deals.” ;, pointing to several failures of the European Union, including its continued dependence on Russian gas and its approach to regulations.
He continued, "Europe “We need to step up to secure real energy independence,” he said, adding, “You cannot continue to buy gas from Moscow and at the same time expect security guarantees, assistance and support from the Americans. This is simply not true.”
Zelensky supported Trump’s demand that NATO allies spend 5 percent of their gross domestic product on defense, saying: “All European countries must be prepared to spend what is truly necessary.” For security, and not just what you have become accustomed to through years of neglect, if it takes 5 percent of GDP to cover defense, so be it, it will be 5 percent.
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