Zelensky Lectured Europe in Davos: 'Nothing Has Changed'

At the World Economic Forum in Davos, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky adopted an unusually admonishing tone towards Europe. In a speech marked by repeated reproaches, he argued that he had every reason to tell European leaders what they are doing wrong and not enough of. The criticisms come at a time when Europe and the USA have borne a crucial responsibility for Ukraine’s ability to withstand Russia’s invasion.

Zelensky used his appearance at the World Economic Forum to deliver what can best be described as a public scolding to Europe. He reminded the audience that he had stood on the same stage a year earlier—and said the same thing.

— Already last year, here in Davos, I ended my speech by saying that Europe must know how to defend itself. A year has passed, and nothing has changed. I’m forced to say the same words again.

The message was clear: Europe sees the threats but does not act. In his speech, Zelensky positioned himself as having both the right and the authority to once again instruct Europe’s leaders.

After the Meeting with Trump – Broader Criticism

The speech was held shortly after Zelensky met with US President Donald Trump in Davos—their first face-to-face meeting this year. The talks took place at a sensitive moment, with Washington pushing for a diplomatic end to the war while Russia continues its attacks on Ukraine’s energy infrastructure.

Zelensky called the meeting with Trump “important” and emphasized, among other things, the need for strengthened air defense:

— Our teams work almost every day. The documents to end the war are nearly ready. Ukraine acts honestly and decisively. Russia must also be forced to end this aggression, he said.

Listed Accusations Against Europe

While the Ukrainian president expressed appreciation for the US role, he widened his criticism—moving beyond the war in Ukraine to Europe’s slow decision-making in general.

In the speech, Zelensky depicted a Europe that lacks both dynamism and the ability to deter authoritarian states.

— If Europe is not perceived as a :censored:6:cdd6bbaa89: power, if its actions do not frighten those who act badly, then Europe will always be one step behind new dangers and attacks, he theorized.

He warned that this hesitation sends signals far beyond Europe’s borders, particularly pointing to Iran as an example of how caution and delay can be interpreted as weakness.

— Who in Europe needs this message to become reality? Yet, Europe has not even tried to build its own response, the Ukrainian president asserted.

Demanded More Missiles

Zelensky further claimed that Europe’s credibility is eroding as Russia continues to produce missiles that hit Ukrainian cities.

— Last year, most of the time was spent discussing long-range weapons for Ukraine, and everyone said the solution was within reach. Now, no one even talks about it. Today, Ukraine is under attack. Tomorrow it could be any NATO country, he predicted.

With this remark, the Ukrainian president hinted that Europe is not only failing Ukraine, but also its own security—despite years of military, economic, and political support that have been crucial for Ukraine’s survival as an independent state.

Tribunal, Oil, and Praise for Trump

Zelensky also returned to the demand for a special tribunal for Russian aggression and questioned with dissatisfaction why Europe, after countless meetings, still has not gotten further.

— It’s true that many meetings have been held, but Europe still hasn’t even progressed as far as to have a place for the tribunal, with staff and actual work going on inside. What is missing? Time or political will? All too often in Europe, there is always something else considered more urgent than justice.

He contrasted Europe’s actions with the USA’s—and Trump’s—more forceful approach:

— Why can President Trump stop tankers from the shadow fleet and seize oil, but not Europe? Russian oil is transported right along Europe’s coasts. That oil finances the war against Ukraine, that oil helps destabilize Europe.

Peace Talks in Sight – But Questions Remain

In the Q&A after the speech, Zelensky stated that a first trilateral meeting between Ukraine, Russia, and the USA is expected to be held in the United Arab Emirates. At the same time, the parties remain far apart. Russia continues to demand a Ukrainian withdrawal from partially occupied territories—demands that Kyiv rejects.

Although Zelensky emphasized that a peace framework is largely negotiated, in Davos he chose to focus less on compromise and more on Europe’s alleged shortcomings. This was a message that, in light of the extensive support already provided, was by many seen as impatient and somewhat presumptuous.

The full speech and Q&A can be viewed below: