European Countries Can Counter Russia’s Threat Only Together, Zelenskyy Says

President Volodymyr Zelenskyy of Ukraine emphasized at the Berlin Security Conference that European nations can effectively counter Russia's threat by working together. He stressed that security is a shared concern of all European countries, pointing out that Russia has invested years in building up its military power and openly considers Europe its adversary.

Zelenskyy warned that Russia's threat extends beyond military force, encompassing hybrid operations such as drone attacks and large-scale disinformation campaigns. He highlighted that Russia undermines security globally, siphoning resources from every nation it can reach and employing diverse tactics, including drones at Leipzig Airport and armies of bots spreading radical ideas on social media.

Zelenskyy cautioned that Russia progressively erodes countries' sovereignty, territory, and national identity by first undermining democracy, normal dialogue, and cooperation, followed by social and economic stability. He warned that if left alone, nations become vulnerable victims. A significant portion of Zelenskyy's address focused on the United States, noting that the ongoing elections would significantly impact both America's future and Europe.

He expressed hope that after the elections, U.S. President Donald Trump would prioritize ending Russia's war against Ukraine, given Trump's considerable influence over Vladimir Putin. Zelenskyy also stressed that if diplomacy alone cannot secure peace, additional pressure on Russia must be applied. He reiterated that Europe must be involved in negotiations to ensure a stable and lasting peace.