President Volodymyr Zelensky called on Europe to create its own armed forces amid uncertainty over further U.S. support against potential Russian aggression.
"Let's be clear: We cannot rule out the possibility that America may refuse to cooperate with Europe on issues that threaten it," Zelensky said on Feb. 15 during his speech at the Munich Security Conference.
"Many leaders have talked about Europe needing its own army. An army of Europe. I really believe that the time has come. The armed forces of Europe must be created," Zelensky added.
U.S. President Donald Trump has repeatedly criticized European NATO members for not spending enough on defense and said that Washington wouldn't defend Europe in case of Russian aggression.
Following Washington's calls, only Poland, Estonia, Lithuania, and Latvia, some of Ukraine's closest allies, have announced spending increases in the wake of new potential threats for Europe.
During his speech, Zelensky said that defense spending is important, but it is impossible to defend the states with these expenses alone.
"It is no more complicated than standing firm against Russian attacks, as we have already done. But it is not just about increasing defense spending as a percentage of GDP. Of course, we need money, but money alone cannot stop the enemy's advance," Zelensky said.
"Without the Ukrainian army, European armies will not be enough to stop Russia. This is the reality. Only our army in Europe has real, modern warfare experience," he added.
"As we fight this war and lay the groundwork for peace and security, we must build the armed forces of Europe so that Europe's future depends only on Europeans, and decisions about Europe are made in Europe."
Zelensky previously said that Russia was possibly preparing for a major military escalation, potentially targeting NATO countries next year.
Speaking at the Munich Security Conference, Zelensky said that Russia plans to deploy 15 divisions, totaling 100,000 to 150,000 troops, primarily in Belarus, a Kyiv Independent journalist reported from the event.
Chris York
(Updated: )
