Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky delivered a blunt message to European leaders on Thursday, urging them to stop focusing on trying to influence President Trump and instead take responsibility for their own security by building a stronger, independent defense capability.
Speaking at the World Economic Forum in Davos, Switzerland, Zelensky criticized what he described as Europe’s overreliance on the United States, warning that the continent remains vulnerable if Washington chooses not to act. His remarks came as uncertainty continues to surround the future of U.S. involvement in the war in Ukraine.
“Right now, NATO exists thanks to the belief that the United States will act, that it will not stand aside and will help. But what if it doesn’t? Believe me, this question is everywhere in the minds of every European leader,” Zelensky said.
He argued that instead of shaping global security outcomes, Europe has become preoccupied with attempting to influence U.S. leadership. “Instead of taking the lead in defending freedom worldwide, especially when America’s focus shifts elsewhere, Europe looks lost trying to convince the U.S. president to change. But he will not change.”
Zelensky’s address comes as Russia’s invasion of Ukraine approaches its fifth year in February, marking the largest land war in Europe since World War II. While European countries have contributed military and financial support, U.S. assistance has remained critical to Ukraine’s ability to resist Russian forces.
Addressing an audience of heads of state and top business executives, Zelensky accused European governments of avoiding responsibility for their own defense. “Leaders say we must defend European interests, but they hope someone else will do it for them,” he said.
He called for Europe to assert itself as a geopolitical power capable of shaping events rather than reacting to crises. “Europe can and must be a global force. Not one that reacts late, but one that defines the future.”
The speech followed a roughly hour-long meeting between Zelensky and Trump, who has spent the past year attempting to broker an end to the war. Trump has frequently criticized Zelensky while speaking positively about Russian President Vladimir Putin. Although Trump has not fully cut off U.S. military aid or intelligence sharing with Ukraine, he has pledged not to approve new funding and has pushed Europe to shoulder more of the financial burden.
Zelensky said preparations for documents to end the war are nearly complete. Trump has stated that both Russia and Ukraine want a deal but has accused both sides of failing to compromise. Trump’s special envoy for peace missions, Steve Witkoff, and his son-in-law Jared Kushner are traveling to Moscow on Thursday to meet with Putin.
Describing his meeting with Trump as “positive,” Zelensky acknowledged the challenges ahead. He said the “last mile” of negotiations remains “very difficult.”
“We need very much to have the United States for the future for security guarantees. We understand that we, Europe, has to be more stronger but Europe will need time, and today America is very strong,” Zelensky said.
