Speaking ahead of a European Union summit in Brussels, Zelensky said that starting in early 2025, Ukraine will urgently need the combined support of both the United States and Europe to stand firm against Moscow.
“We truly need this unity between the United States and Europe from the very beginning of next year," Zelensky told reporters. "It’s crucial for achieving peace. I believe that only together can the U.S. and Europe stop Putin and save Ukraine."
He made the remarks as EU leaders gathered for their final European Council meeting before incoming U.S. President Donald Trump assumes office.
Trump has signaled a desire to end the conflict swiftly.
When asked if Europe alone could maintain Ukraine’s defense, Zelensky repeated his call for U.S.-EU cooperation, adding that it would be “very difficult” to support Ukraine without American assistance.
He said he plans to discuss the issue directly with Trump once the new U.S. administration settles in.
Zelensky also outlined his objectives for the Brussels talks: increasing domestic defense production in Ukraine to strengthen battlefield results, bolstering energy security—particularly the safety of Ukrainian nuclear power plants—and improving the protection of schools and shelters for children affected by the conflict.
He is also seeking ways to enhance gas storage capabilities and other critical infrastructure to ensure the country’s resilience.
The Ukrainian leader spoke alongside European Council President Antonio Costa, who is chairing his first EU summit.
Costa reaffirmed the bloc’s commitment to Ukraine and expressed hope that one day Zelensky will join an EU summit as the leader of a full-fledged EU member state.
He said that the war in Ukraine is also a direct attack on international law, taking place on European soil.
Costa added that the summit’s agenda includes long-term strategic issues, such as a new European security architecture, climate change and ocean governance.
On Wednesday, Zelensky attended a meeting at NATO Secretary-General Mark Rutte’s residence with other allies, including Polish President Andrzej Duda.
Meanwhile, Polish Prime Minister Donald Tusk participated in an EU-Western Balkans summit before joining Thursday’s discussions.
As Zelensky concludes his second day of talks in Brussels, the pressing question remains whether the combined political and military support from the U.S. and Europe can empower Ukraine to face down Russian aggression and eventually restore peace on the continent.
(jh/gs)
Source: PAP, IAR