Europe Must Be at the Table
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy criticized the limited involvement of European leaders in U.S.-led negotiations aimed at ending the war with Russia, calling their absence a “big mistake.” Speaking at the Munich Security Conference, Zelenskyy said any lasting peace must reflect the security concerns of the whole continent, not just Kyiv and Washington.
He noted that next week’s trilateral talks with the United States and Russia must be “serious and constructive,” but expressed frustration that discussions often feel disjointed, with different parties “talking about completely different things.” Zelenskyy also warned that negotiations too often focus on Ukrainian concessions alone, which could reward aggression if Russia isn’t held to the same standard.
Security Guarantees and EU Ambitions
Kyiv continues to insist on binding security guarantees as a precondition for any peace deal. Zelenskyy stressed that peace cannot endure without a clear and enforceable framework. European countries are expected to shoulder much of the responsibility, but Ukraine sees a U.S. backstop as essential.
He confirmed that Ukraine has prepared detailed proposals and is ready to formalize agreements with both American and European partners. Zelenskyy also said a concrete date for EU membership should be included in any settlement, suggesting accession could “technically” occur by 2027. On elections, he stated that voting is possible only under a true ceasefire, pointing out the challenges of holding ballots while soldiers remain on the front lines. He also remarked that Moscow should consider similar conditions to allow free elections in Russia, where Vladimir Putin has ruled for more than two decades.
Cutting Off Russia’s Energy Lifeline
Zelenskyy called for tougher action against Russia’s oil and gas revenues, which continue to fund its military operations despite sanctions. He described the Kremlin’s shadow fleet — over 1,000 tankers moving near European waters — as “floating wallets” sustaining Moscow’s war effort.
He urged partners to enforce stricter measures, including detaining, blocking, or confiscating these vessels. Zelenskyy said he recently discussed sanctions with Emmanuel Macron and Ursula von der Leyen, with the EU preparing a new package as the conflict continues. “Without oil money,” he emphasized, “Putin would not have money for this war.”
