Zelensky Urges Europe to Act Decisively, Criticizes Inaction on Russia

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky delivered a sharp critique of European leaders at the World Economic Forum in Davos, accusing them of a lack of decisive action and a tendency to delay critical decisions regarding Russia’s aggression. Zelensky drew parallels to the film “Groundhog Day,” lamenting that his calls for stronger European resolve seemed to be repeating without tangible progress.

Zelensky expressed frustration with Europe’s perceived inability to unite and act decisively on global issues. He stated that Europe, despite its potential, remains a “beautiful but fragmented kaleidoscope of small and middle powers” instead of a leading global entity. He pointed to the slow progress on establishing a European war crimes tribunal and the continent’s internal arguments as hindrances to finding real solutions.

In contrast to his criticism of Europe, Zelensky highlighted the necessity of U.S. involvement for effective security guarantees. He mentioned a meeting with President Trump, after which he claimed that U.S. security guarantees for Ukraine were finalized. Zelensky advised Europe to focus on strengthening itself rather than attempting to influence President Trump, whom he believes will not change his stance.

The Ukrainian president called for more robust actions, such as seizing Russian oil tankers, noting that Russian oil continues to fund the war. He suggested that all Russian oil be confiscated and sold for Europe’s benefit. Zelensky also drew a parallel between the U.S. operation that led to the arrest of Venezuela’s former president and the lack of similar action against Russian President Vladimir Putin, despite an international arrest warrant.

Concluding his address, Zelensky reiterated Ukraine’s readiness to end the war and urged both Europe and the U.S. to increase pressure on Moscow and provide further support to Kyiv. He emphasized that “no intellectual discussions are capable of stopping wars. We need action. World order comes from action.” He stressed the need for courage to act, stating, “Without action now, there is no tomorrow. Let’s end this Groundhog Day.”