Zelensky Warns Against Trump-Putin Meeting Without Ukraine's Involvement
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has expressed deep concerns about the implications of U.S. President Donald Trump meeting with Russian leader Vladimir Putin before engaging with him. During a conversation at the Munich Security Conference, Zelensky highlighted the potential dangers of being sidelined in peace negotiations.
In recent developments, a phone call between Trump and Putin has raised alarms in Kyiv regarding Ukraine's exclusion from critical discussions. Zelensky conveyed his dissatisfaction to CNN's Christiane Amanpour, stating that he appreciated the urgency for talks but was unsettled that Trump's initial call was with Putin.
"Trump hasn't provided any commitment to meeting me first," Zelensky remarked. However, he emphasized that the U.S. president recognizes the need for immediate dialogue in order to forge effective plans to conclude the ongoing conflict.
In a lighter moment during the interview, Zelensky humorously noted that he had assured Trump that Putin harbors a fear of him, saying, "I told Trump that Putin is afraid of him, and he heard me. Now, Putin knows."
Zelensky reiterated that any peace talks regarding the conflict cannot proceed without Ukraine's direct involvement. He remarked on the current dynamics within NATO, stating, "The most influential member of NATO seems to be Putin because his whims have the power to block NATO decisions." He asserted, "No deals about Ukraine without Ukraine. No decisions about Europe without Europe." He underscored the necessity of including Europe in discussions affecting European interests.
In a sobering statement, Zelensky warned of a shifting paradigm regarding American support for Europe, suggesting that the days of unquestioned U.S. backing are concluding. "Recently, Trump did not even mention the importance of America needing Europe at the negotiating table. That says a lot," he said.
Further reflecting on the evolving relationship between the U.S. and Europe, Zelensky highlighted remarks made by U.S. Vice President JD Vance, who critiqued European allies in a speech that fell short of addressing vital issues such as Ukraine's sovereignty and security. Zelensky noted, "The U.S. vice president made it clear: decades of the old relationship between Europe and America are ending. From now on, things will be different, and Europe needs to adjust to that."
Zelensky called for a unified European military force, acknowledging the uncertainty regarding the continuity of U.S. military support. "Let’s be honest; we cannot rule out the possibility that America might say 'No' to Europe on issues that threaten it. Many leaders have discussed the need for Europe to establish its own military—an Army of Europe," he stated, emphasizing the importance of European autonomy in defense matters.
As the geopolitical landscape shifts, Zelensky's message is clear: Ukraine must not be a passive observer in discussions that directly affect its fate, and Europe must step up to take greater responsibility in ensuring its own security.
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