Europe Must Be at the Negotiation Table
Speaking at the Munich Security Conference, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy criticized the limited role of European leaders in U.S.-facilitated talks aimed at ending the war with Russia. He called it a “big mistake” and emphasized that any lasting peace must account for the security needs of the entire continent, not just Ukraine and Washington.
Zelenskyy highlighted the upcoming trilateral talks with Russia and the U.S., noting that progress toward a ceasefire has been slow. He voiced frustration over discussions that seem disconnected and warned that focusing only on Ukrainian concessions while Russia faces little pressure risks rewarding aggression.
Firm Security Guarantees and EU Accession
Kyiv insists that strong, enforceable security guarantees are a precondition for peace. Zelenskyy stressed that European countries would bear much of the responsibility, with the United States acting as a necessary backstop. He said Ukraine has ready proposals and is prepared to formalize agreements with both European and American partners.
He also suggested that a concrete EU accession date could be part of a settlement, possibly as soon as 2027. On elections, Zelenskyy said they can only take place under a genuine ceasefire, noting the logistical challenge of front-line troops voting. He added that a similar ceasefire in Russia could allow free elections there as well.
Cutting Off Russia’s War Funding
Zelenskyy called for stricter measures to halt Russia’s use of oil revenues to fund its military campaign. Despite existing sanctions, he said Moscow still relies on a fleet of over 1,000 tankers near European waters, which he described as “floating wallets for the Kremlin.”
He urged stronger enforcement, including detaining, blocking, or confiscating vessels that skirt sanctions, and noted discussions on the matter with Emmanuel Macron and Ursula von der Leyen. Zelenskyy warned, “Without oil money, Putin would not have money for this war.”
