Zelenskiy tells Europe: have courage to finally ‘act now’

President Volodymyr Zelenskiy criticised Europe on Thursday as a “fragmented kaleidoscope of small and middle powers” lacking courage to act decisively and facing a dark future unless it stood up to U.S. and Russian power.

In some of his toughest remarks to key allies of Kyiv, Zelenskiy urged Europe not to “degrade” itself by failing to stand up to Russian aggression and U.S. President Donald Trump’s aspiration to control Greenland.

“Europe can and must be a global force,” he told global leaders at the World Economic Forum in Davos as Russia’s war in Ukraine neared its four-year mark.

“Not one that reacts late, but one that defines the future.”

Zelenskiy, who for years has rallied often reluctant European allies against Russia, repeated calls for Europe to create its own united armed forces and to use frozen Russian financial assets to support Ukraine.

He spoke after meeting Trump in Davos for talks on ending the war which both leaders described as positive. But he urged European leaders to be more robust in defending democratic values in their region, as U.S. attention turns away.

“Instead of taking the lead in defending freedom worldwide, especially when America’s focus shifts elsewhere, Europe looks lost trying to convince the U.S. president to change,” Zelenskiy said in his fiery speech.

Here are some quotes from his speech:

EUROPE’S LACK OF COURAGE

“We should not accept that Europe is just a salad of small and middle powers, seasoned with enemies of Europe. When united, we are truly invincible.”

“Instead of becoming a truly global power, Europe remains a beautiful but fragmented kaleidoscope of small and middle powers. Instead of taking the lead in defending freedom worldwide, especially when America’s focus shifts elsewhere, Europe looks lost, trying to convince the U.S. president to change.”

“Europe needs strength. For that, we must act together – and act in time. And most of all, we must have the courage to act.”

“Without action now, there is no tomorrow. Let’s end this ‘Groundhog Day’.”

“Because if Europe is not seen as a global force, if its actions don’t scare bad actors, then Europe will always be reacting – catching up with new dangers and attacks.”

“But when you refuse to help people fighting for freedom, the consequences return – and they’re always negative.”

RUSSIAN OIL

“Why can (U.S.) President (Donald) Trump stop tankers from the ‘shadow fleet’ and seize oil – but Europe doesn’t?”

“Russian oil is being transported right along European shores. That oil funds the war against Ukraine. That oil helps destabilize Europe. So Russian oil must be stopped and confiscated and sold for Europe’s benefit. Why not?”

“There were different opinions, but the fact remains: (Venezuela’s former President Nicolas) Maduro is on trial in New York. Sorry, but (Russian President Vladimir) Putin is not on trial.”

GREENLAND

“Everyone turned attention to Greenland. And it’s clear – most leaders simply are not sure what to do about it.”

“And if you send 30 or 40 soldiers to Greenland – what is that for? What message does it send? What’s the message to Putin? To China? And even more importantly, what message does it send to Denmark – the most important – your close ally?”

“If Russian warships are sailing freely around Greenland, Ukraine can help – we have the expertise and weapons to ensure not one of those ships remains. They can sink near Greenland just as they do near Crimea.”

“Europe still remains in ‘Greenland mode’. Maybe … Someday … Someone will do something.”