Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy's Address at the World Economic Forum
Speaking at the World Economic Forum in Davos, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy criticized European leaders for their lack of progress in establishing a tribunal for Russian aggression and for their insufficient response to the ongoing situation in Greenland and Belarus. He emphasized that a year has passed with little change, stating:
"I find myself forced to repeat the same demands," said Volodymyr Zelenskyy.
Zelenskyy pointed out that as the large-scale war in Europe enters its fourth year, Vladimir Putin has not been brought to justice.
"Forgive me, but Putin is not in the dock. And this is in the fourth year of a major war in Europe," he stressed.
The President noted the absence of tangible progress on the tribunal, highlighting that Europe has not even decided on a location for its headquarters. Zelenskyy also warned that Russian Oreshnik missiles stationed in Belarus pose a threat to most European capitals.
He called on Europe to take decisive action, specifically urging the confiscation of Russian oil.
"The supply of Russian oil must be stopped, it must be confiscated and sold for the benefit of Europe. If Putin has no money, there will be no war," Zelenskyy stated.
Zelenskyy also discussed a recent meeting with Donald Trump concerning the current situation in Ukraine. Separately, Trump conducted an operation in Venezuela, which led to a legal case against President Maduro in New York.
The President stressed that the war has not stopped and there is no ceasefire. He asserted that no security guarantees for Ukraine can be effective without the involvement of the United States.
"We discussed the work of our teams, and virtually every day there are meetings or communication," the president said.
He further raised questions about potential Russian actions against Lithuania or Poland, asking who would respond in such a scenario.
Ukraine's Readiness for Peace
Zelenskyy concluded by stating that Ukraine is ready to end the war and expressed hope that Russia would also be prepared for peace.
President Zelenskyy's Davos address underscores the critical need for sustained international backing as Ukraine continues its defensive war. His calls for a special tribunal and asset seizures reflect a broader strategy to hold Russia accountable, a process that has moved slower than many allies promised. The speech highlights the complex geopolitical reality where European security and justice mechanisms remain deeply intertwined with American leadership.