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As the war in Ukraine enters its third year, President Volodymyr Zelensky urges Europe to unite, strengthen defences, and safeguard its future against growing threats, including Russia and foreign troops. Speaking at Davos, he highlighted the critical need for solidarity and military preparedness.
UPDATED: Jan 22, 2025 19:32 IST
As the war in Ukraine enters its third year, President Volodymyr Zelensky is delivering a sobering message to Europe and the world: the stakes have never been higher. Speaking at the World Economic Forum in Davos, Zelensky urged European nations to stand united, strengthen their defences, and prepare for a future where security cannot be taken for granted.
A Dire Warning
Zelensky highlighted the growing threats from Russia, which he described as evolving into a militarised, nuclear-armed state resembling North Korea. He warned of battles involving North Korean soldiers near Ukraine's borders and emphasised the urgent need for Europe to fortify itself.
“Let’s not forget,” he said, “there’s no ocean separating European countries from Russia.” Zelensky underscored the stark reality of Russia’s military capacity, which outpaces Europe in weapon production, and the Kremlin’s ability to mobilise 600,000 troops, with the potential to raise that number to 1.5 million.
The Cost of Peace
Calling for a robust peacekeeping effort, Zelensky proposed a minimum of 200,000 allied troops to enforce any future deal, describing this as a non-negotiable requirement. He also dismissed any notion of reducing Ukraine’s military strength, a demand he anticipates from Russian President Vladimir Putin.
“The fastest way for Putin to succeed,” Zelensky warned, “is to pressure the U.S. to prevent Ukraine from joining NATO and force allies to push us into reducing our military fivefold. We will not allow this.”
Global Reactions
Zelensky’s call to action has sparked discussions among world leaders. The UK’s Prime Minister Keir Starmer expressed solidarity, promising full support but refraining from committing troops. Meanwhile, U.S. President Donald Trump, in his second term, pledged to resolve the war, initially claiming a 24-hour timeline before revising it to six months. Trump’s team has proposed peacekeeping plans involving 200,000 international troops and hinted at additional sanctions on Russia if Putin resists negotiations.
Frontline Realities
While leaders deliberate, the frontlines in Ukraine remain as active as ever. In Donetsk, soldiers of the 24th Mechanised Brigade are undergoing intensive training to prepare for combat. New recruits like Volodymyr are being equipped with critical skills to face the complexities of modern warfare.
“Everything is new for me,” 'Volodymyr' shared. “The instructors try very hard to teach and explain everything clearly.”
The serviceman from the 24th Mechanised Brigade also rejected lowering the conscription age from 25, advocating for the maturity and choice of young recruits. “At 18, these guys haven’t formed yet,” he argued. “To make it compulsory for everyone is wrong.”
A Call for Unity
As Ukraine faces an uncertain future, Zelensky’s message is clear: Europe must unite, invest in defence, and prepare for a long-term security strategy. The conflict’s outcome will not only define Ukraine’s future but also shape the stability of the entire continent.
In Zelensky’s own words, “This is not just about Ukraine. This is about Europe’s ability to defend itself and secure its future.”
Published By:
indiatodayglobal
Published On:
Jan 22, 2025
