“Europe must maintain unity, increase defense spending, ensure energy independence and be able to guarantee security.”, — write: www.president.gov.ua
Europe must maintain unity, increase defense spending, ensure energy independence and be able to guarantee security. The President of Ukraine, Volodymyr Zelenskyy, stated this during his speech to the participants of the World Economic Forum in Davos.
The head of state noted that despite the fact that Russia’s overall economic potential is much smaller than Europe’s, the Russian Federation produces several times more ammunition and military equipment than all of Europe combined. In addition, Russia is increasing cooperation with Iran and North Korea. That is why it is important to preserve unity in Europe.
“We need a common European policy in the field of security and defense, and all European countries should be ready to spend on security as much as it is really necessary, and not as much as they have become accustomed to over the years of negligence. If defense requires 5% of GDP, then it should be 5%,” Volodymyr Zelenskyy said.
The President emphasized that Ukraine has created models of defense cooperation that can make the whole of Europe stronger. It is about the joint production of artillery and drones, including unique ones that have no analogues in the world. In addition, the Head of State called for joint creation of air defense systems that can deal with all types of cruise and ballistic missiles.
“Europe needs its own Iron Dome capable of resisting any threats. We cannot rely on the good will of several capitals when it comes to the security of Europe,” Volodymyr Zelenskyi said.
He also emphasized that no European country should depend on one energy supplier, especially Russia, and the policy of US President Donald Trump can help in this matter. Separately, the Head of State noted that Europe must be able to guarantee peace and security for itself and for others.
“Europe deserves to be strong. And for this, Europe needs the EU and NATO. Is it possible without Ukraine and without a fair end to Russia’s war against Ukraine? I’m sure not. Only real security guarantees for us will be real security guarantees for everyone in Europe. And we must ensure that America also considers us necessary,” concluded Volodymyr Zelenskyi.
