Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy emphasized on Thursday that there is no alternative to a strong Europe, urging European unity to achieve peace amid the ongoing Russia-Ukraine conflict. Speaking at the fifth European Political Community (EPC) summit in Budapest, he stated that peace can only be achieved through strength and unity.
Zelenskyy rejected the idea of Ukraine making concessions to Russia, calling it unacceptable for Kyiv and dangerous for Europe. He criticized any attempts to seek peace by appeasing other leaders like North Korea’s Kim Jong Un, stating that no true leader who supports a united and peaceful Europe would consider such an option.
Referring to the concept of “peace through strength” advocated by US President-elect Donald Trump, Zelenskyy argued that it has proven to be effective and must be applied again. He stressed that Europe cannot expect peace by showing weakness or sacrificing its values.
He also pointed out that Russia’s invasion of Ukraine was motivated by its desire for global power, starting with Ukraine and expanding to control Europe. Zelenskyy emphasized that Ukraine needs weapons, not negotiations, and warned that appeasing Russian President Vladimir Putin would only worsen the situation. He reiterated that Ukraine’s peace formula and plan for victory remain open.
NEWS DESK
PRESS UPDATE