MSC: Zelenskyy says Ukraine 'holding European front'
Deutsche Welle
February 14, 2026
AI-Generated Deep Dive Summary
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy delivered a strong message at the Munich Security Conference (MSC), criticizing the US for frequently pressuring Ukraine to make concessions during negotiations while overlooking demands aimed at Russia. He emphasized that such an approach undermines efforts to address the root causes of the conflict effectively. Zelenskyy also acknowledged European and American support but expressed frustration over the lack of progress in securing tangible commitments from Moscow.
Zelenskyy's speech highlighted his growing concerns about the disparity in how concessions are discussed during trilateral meetings involving Ukraine, the US, and Europe. He pointed out that while Kyiv is repeatedly asked to compromise, Russia’s role in these discussions remains underaddressed. This imbalance, he argued, risks leaving Ukraine isolated in its efforts to defend itself against Russian aggression.
The MSC provided Zelenskyy with a platform to address broader issues affecting European security. He criticized Western allies for failing to apply consistent pressure on Russia and called for more robust military support for Ukraine. Zelenskyy also drew historical parallels, likening Putin’s actions to those of 1930s leaders, and stressed the importance of unity among democracies to prevent further aggression.
Poland's Foreign Minister Radoslaw Sikorski echoed some of these concerns during his own MSC remarks. He acknowledged that US President Donald Trump had played a role in prompting European countries to increase defense spending, with Germany notably boosting its military budget. However, Sikorski cautioned against overreach by the Trump administration, urging respectful dialogue while acknowledging Europe’s growing capacity to defend itself.
Zelenskyy's speech underscores the critical juncture in international relations as global powers navigate a shifting balance of power between the US, Europe, and Russia. His remarks serve as a reminder of the ongoing challenges in achieving peace and security in Eastern Europe, where Ukraine remains at the forefront of efforts to counter Russian expansionism.
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Originally published on Deutsche Welle on 2/14/2026