Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has urged Europe to form its army, warning that the continent can no longer fully rely on US support, particularly with the recent return of Donald Trump to the White House.
Speaking at the Munich Security Conference, Zelensky emphasised that Ukraine and its European allies must be included in any peace negotiations with Russia.
“Let’s be honest—now we can’t rule out the possibility that America might say no to Europe on issues that threaten it,” Zelensky stated. “I believe that time has come. The Armed Forces of Europe must be created.”
His remarks followed Trump’s recent announcement that he intends to meet Russian President Vladimir Putin to discuss a truce in Ukraine, raising concerns in Kyiv about a settlement being reached without Ukraine’s involvement.
Zelensky insisted that “Ukraine will never accept deals made behind our backs.”
European leaders echoed his concerns, with Polish Prime Minister Donald Tusk warning that Europe must act swiftly to secure its future.
“Europe urgently needs its plan of action concerning Ukraine and our security, or else other global players will decide about our future,” Tusk said.
Meanwhile, Ukraine is reportedly in talks with Washington over granting access to its rare earth minerals in exchange for long-term US security commitments.
As diplomatic discussions continue, Russian forces have claimed further territorial gains in Ukraine’s Donetsk region, adding to the urgency of Kyiv’s call for stronger European defence measures.
