MUNICH – Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy delivered a scathing rebuke of Russian President Vladimir Putin on Saturday, branding him a “slave to war” during a speech at the Munich Security Conference. Zelenskyy’s remarks came as Ukraine prepares for a fourth anniversary of Russia’s full-scale invasion and ahead of planned US-brokered peace talks next week. He emphasized that Kyiv is committed to ending the conflict but stressed the need for robust international support and a firm stance against Russian aggression.
Zelenskyy also revealed Ukraine is seeking security guarantees from the United States for a minimum of 20 years as a prerequisite for any dignified peace agreement with Russia. Speaking to attendees at the conference, he further called for a definitive timeline for Ukraine’s accession to the European Union, with some EU officials suggesting a potential date as early as 2027. The upcoming trilateral talks, scheduled for Tuesday and Wednesday, will involve Ukrainian, Russian, and US delegations, according to a statement from Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov carried by Russian news agencies.
The Ukrainian leader underscored the devastating impact of the war on his country’s infrastructure, stating that Russian attacks have damaged every power plant in Ukraine. He urged European nations to “stand up to Russia,” warning that any compromise deal with Moscow would be a temporary illusion and would not prevent future aggression. “None of our people chose to be heroes,” Zelenskyy said, describing the daily realities of life under attack.
Later Saturday, Zelenskyy engaged in bilateral discussions with US Secretary of State Marco Rubio and held phone conversations with US envoys Steve Witkoff and Jared Kushner. Senator Rubio, in a show of solidarity, described the United States as “the child of Europe,” offering reassurance of continued support.
Push for Stronger European Defense
The call for increased European security cooperation extended beyond Ukraine’s immediate needs. UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer advocated for a closer defense relationship between the UK and Europe, envisioning a stronger European defense framework and economic revitalization. Starmer asserted that the UK has moved past the era of Brexit and that “the new normal” requires Europe to assume primary responsibility for its own defense, noting a “softening” of peace amid “warning signs” from Russia.
NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte, also speaking at the Munich Security Conference, highlighted the significant losses Russia has sustained in Ukraine, estimating approximately 65,000 soldiers lost over the past two months. Rutte affirmed the strength of the NATO alliance, stating it is currently capable of deterring a Russian attack and that it must maintain that capability for years to come. “We will win every fight with Russia if they attack us now, and we have to make sure in two, four, six years that same is still the case,” he said.
Civilian Casualties Reported
Amidst diplomatic efforts, the conflict continued to claim civilian lives. A drone strike in the Black Sea port city of Odesa, Ukraine, resulted in the death of an elderly woman after hitting a residential building, according to Ukraine’s State Emergency Service. Simultaneously, in Russia’s Bryansk region, a civilian was killed in a Ukrainian drone strike on a car, as reported by regional governor Alexander Bogomaz.
The situation underscores the ongoing human cost of the war, even as diplomatic channels remain open. The upcoming talks represent a critical juncture in the conflict, with Ukraine seeking not only an end to hostilities but also long-term security assurances and a clear path toward European integration.
As the war enters its fourth year, the international community remains focused on finding a sustainable resolution that respects Ukraine’s sovereignty and territorial integrity. The outcome of next week’s negotiations will be closely watched for signs of progress toward a lasting peace.
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