With Ukraine’s NATO membership hopes fading Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has called for formation of a separate European army to counter Russia. At Munich Security Conference he also warned that Ukraine will reject any peace talks that exclude Kyiv amid reports of U.S.-Russia discussions.
Three years into the Russia-Ukraine war, Zelensky’s vision of Ukraine joining NATO remains unlikely. Frustrated with the United States’ approach to peace negotiations, he proposed an independent European military force consisting of troops from European nations.
“Many leaders have said that Europe needs its own army. I believe that time has come,” Zelensky declared.
“Only Ukraine has modern combat experience in Europe and without us Russia cannot stopped. That is the reality now.”
This call for a European defense alliance comes amid rumors that the U.S. is advancing peace talks with Russia—potentially excluding Ukraine. Reports suggest that U.S. officials will meet Russian representatives in Saudi Arabia within days. Zelensky warned that any deal made without Kyiv’s involvement will rejected.
“Europe’s future must decided by Europe itself,” Zelensky stated. “We have the power, we just need unity, so no one can ignore us.”
U.S. has emphasized the need for talks with both allies and adversaries. As Washington faces criticism over its approach to peace. Recent phone conversation between Donald Trump and Vladimir Putin being viewed. As a major diplomatic development with some claiming it outshines Biden’s handling of the war.
“In just 25 days, Trump has spoken with Putin—something Biden failed to do in three years,” a U.S. official remarked. “Whether you like it or not, you must talk to both friends and foes.”
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European leaders reportedly alarmed by Washington’s independent peace efforts and have scheduled an emergency summit in Paris next week to discuss the matter.
Adding to tensions, Zelensky has suggested that Ukraine might refuse to share. Its rare mineral resources with U.S. unless security guarantees are provided. Speaking at the Munich Security Conference, he criticized a proposed deal by Washington, which reportedly fails to offer Ukraine any long-term security commitments.
“Investment is important but it must be done legally and in a way that secures our interests,” Zelensky asserted. “We will only consider how to benefit from our resources once our security guaranteed.”
Reports indicate that Donald Trump has demanded a 50% stake in Ukraine’s mineral resources, further straining relations.
On the battlefield, Russia’s Defense Ministry claims to have captured another area in Donetsk, while Ukraine reports that 176 battles took place within the last 24 hours. Russia says it repelled Ukrainian counterattacks in multiple regions, including Kharkiv and Luhansk, and destroyed 130 drones.
Ukraine, on the other hand, maintains that it successfully thwarted several Russian offensives.
With diplomatic tensions rising and military clashes intensifying future of Ukraine’s role in European security remains uncertain. Will Zelensky’s push for a European army gain support, or will U.S.-Russia peace efforts sideline Ukraine?
