President Volodymyr Zelensky is in Brussels, presenting Ukraine’s Victory Plan to European leaders. This strategy outlines various measures aimed at forcing Russia to make peace and ensuring the security of both Ukraine and Europe. One of the key elements is a comprehensive non-nuclear strategic deterrent package, which could be deployed in Ukraine with the support of international partners, such as the US, UK, France, Italy, and Germany. Ukraine is also advocating for the authorization to use long-range weapons to strike targets on Russian territory, which could strengthen its position on the battlefield.
Zelensky is also scheduled to meet with NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte, who reaffirmed that Ukraine will become a member of the Alliance. However, the timing remains uncertain due to the ongoing war. Zelensky is urging his partners to expedite the process, emphasizing that inviting Ukraine to NATO is a crucial step for the continent’s security.
A key focus of the discussions is international support. The Ukrainian president stated that the country needs more air defense systems to protect against winter threats. This issue was addressed in meetings with European Council President Charles Michel and other European leaders. Lithuanian President Gitanas Nausėda expressed concerns over the hesitation of some EU countries to support Ukraine, stressing that delays in decision-making could weaken Europe’s defense.
In addition, President Zelensky raised the issue of third-party involvement in the war against Ukraine. It has been confirmed that North Korean officers are already on Ukraine’s temporarily occupied territories, training Russian soldiers. Iran continues to supply Russia with weapons, further increasing the threat to Ukrainian forces.
Despite these challenges, Ukraine’s support from its partners remains strong. Sweden has already confirmed its backing for the Victory Plan and Ukraine’s future NATO membership. Zelensky emphasized that to achieve victory, Ukraine needs not only military but also economic support, including investments in rebuilding the country.
In the context of growing geopolitical threats, it is essential to consider the roles of countries like North Korea and Iran, which are directly or indirectly supporting Russia in its war against Ukraine. These threats endanger not only Ukraine but all of Europe, making strategic cooperation with international partners vital for the success of the Victory Plan.
Key points of Zelensky’s speech in Brussels:
🔹 “If our partners don’t support the Victory Plan, it will be very difficult for us.”
🔹 “All partners want Russia to be at the Peace Summit. We need a strong position.”
🔹 “If you say that Ukraine is essential for the continent’s security, then inviting Ukraine to NATO is not a ‘red line’.”
🔹 “There is information that North Korea is preparing a contingent to fight in Ukraine. I discussed this with the US and our partners. This is official confirmation that a second country is fully involved in the war. Iran helps with weapons, but not with personnel.”
🔹 “The Victory Plan includes not only military but also economic measures to strengthen Ukraine.”
🔹 “North Korean officers are already on Ukraine’s temporarily occupied territories, training Russian soldiers,” said Zelensky.
🔹 “In a conversation with Trump, I said: ‘Either Ukraine will have nuclear weapons, or the North Atlantic Alliance.’ Right now, we choose NATO,” Zelensky stated.
“Which nuclear power has suffered? No one but Ukraine… Who gave up nuclear weapons? Everyone? No. Only Ukraine… Who is fighting today? Ukraine,” the president told Trump.
Zelensky noted that Trump had agreed with these arguments.
Internal linking paragraph:
To dive deeper into Ukraine’s nuclear disarmament and its modern-day implications, read the article titled “The History of Ukraine’s Nuclear Disarmament: Consequences and Present Challenges” link.