Europe must strive for a top position in priorities, alliances, and technological advancement. All European nations should increase defense spending, as the Russian dictator Putin is committing all available resources and reserves to war and arms production.
This statement was made by Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky at the World Economic Forum in Davos on January 21. The broadcast was conducted by the press service of the Office of the President of Ukraine.
How North Korea, Iran, and China are helping Russia wage war against UkrainePutin has several accomplice countries in the war against Ukraine. The infographic shows what military support Iran, North Korea, and China provide.He reminded that currently all eyes are on Washington and the new U.S. President Donald Trump. However, Europe must ensure it remains a global player as well. He cited the concern of all countries regarding their alliance with the United States.
“Europe cannot afford to be second or third to its allies. If that happens, the world will start moving forward without Europe, and it will be a world that is neither comfortable nor favorable for Europeans. Europe must compete for a leading position in priorities, alliances, and technological development,” Zelensky stated.
The President pointed out that just last year, the U.S. openly declared that the Indo-Pacific region was their primary security priority, followed by the Middle East and Persian Gulf, with Europe coming in third. This was the case even during Joe Biden's administration.
According to Zelensky, the world is at a turning point. Russia has already involved North Korean troops in the conflict and has signed a new cooperation agreement with Iran. China also exerts significant influence. All these deals are against Ukraine, Europe, and the U.S. The only way to counter them is through collective efforts.
“Do not forget, there is no ocean separating European countries from Russia. European leaders must remember this - battles involving North Korean soldiers are currently taking place in locations geographically closer to Davos than to Pyongyang,” Zelensky emphasized.
He noted that Putin could deploy 1.5 million of his soldiers. The Ukrainian army consists of over 800,000 personnel.
“France comes in second with over 200,000 troops. Then Germany, Italy, and the United Kingdom. All others have fewer. This is not a situation where one country can secure itself alone. It is about all of us standing together and being significant,” Zelensky explained.
He added that despite Russia's overall economic potential being much lower than that of Europe, it produces several times more ammunition and military equipment than all European countries combined.
“And we need to start building air defense systems together – systems that can genuinely handle all types of cruise and ballistic missiles. Europe needs its version of the Iron Dome that can counter any threat,” Zelensky concluded.
Recall that the inauguration of U.S. President Donald Trump took place on January 20. In his speech, the politician did not mention Ukraine directly, but promised to “end wars that we did not start.”
In a media comment, Trump stated that Putin is “destroying” Russia by not concluding a deal to end the war.
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