Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky addressed the European Political Community Summit in Budapest, stressing the importance of Europe’s unity in facing Russian aggression and supporting Ukraine in its struggle against the invasion. In his speech, Zelensky urged European leaders not to compromise with the Kremlin or to rely on illusions of peace through concessions with dictatorships.
North Korea’s Role in the War in Europe
One of Zelensky’s key messages was North Korea’s involvement in the war against Ukraine. According to him, North Korean troops are actively participating in combat, making Pyongyang an effective party to the hostilities in Europe. The president reminded that North Korea supplies not only weapons but also soldiers to support Russia. Intelligence reports from South Korea indicate that over 10,000 North Korean troops have already arrived in Russia, with most of them deployed in front-line regions like the Kursk area. This new threat calls for an immediate response from the international community.
The Dangers of Compromise with Dictators
Zelensky warned that some politicians are attempting to persuade Ukraine to make concessions to Russia. He emphasized that such compromises are not only unacceptable to Ukraine but also dangerous for Europe as a whole. “What’s next? Will Europe also have to seek favors from Kim Jong Un?” the president asked rhetorically. European leaders must understand that peace is achievable only through strength and unity, while weakness will only encourage more aggression.
“Embracing Putin Won’t Help”
Zelensky reminded the audience that some European politicians have spent over 20 years trying to build constructive relations with Putin. Instead of peace, this approach has only fueled the Kremlin’s aggressive policies. “He only thinks about war and will not change. Only pressure can contain him,” the Ukrainian leader emphasized, highlighting that cooperation with the Russian dictator is merely an illusion of security that costs Europe its stability.
Holding Russia Accountable for the War’s Consequences
Zelensky called on the international community to actively hold Russia accountable for the destruction and loss of life in Ukraine. In his view, it is Russia that must pay the price for its aggression, not Ukraine, which is forced to defend itself. He also highlighted that frozen Russian assets should go towards Ukraine’s reconstruction, as the Ukrainian people have paid the highest price in this war. “These are Ukrainian funds, and they must help our country rebuild destroyed homes and infrastructure,” the president said.
Russia as a Source of Instability
Zelensky pointed out that Russia continues to finance its aggression through oil sales, sanctions evasion, and the global purchase of components for drones and missiles. He stressed that the Russian regime remains capable of interfering in the internal affairs of other nations and spreading instability across regions. Therefore, he noted, Europe needs powerful leverage over Russia and the Putin regime to effectively counter their plans.
Zelensky’s comments on the lack of partner response to the deployment of North Korean troops in Russia highlight the urgent need for decisive action to protect Europe from growing threats. The Ukrainian leader urged European allies to strengthen cooperation and unity to stand together against Kremlin aggression.
For further insight into the new threats posed by Russian aggression, read “Ukraine Considers Restoring Its Nuclear Arsenal in Response to Russian Aggression,” which explores Ukraine’s potential steps in the face of ongoing threats from Russia.