Zelenskyy Proposes European Joint Force with Ukrainian Army as Its Core.

Statement by Volodymyr Zelenskyy

According to UATV: On January 23, 2023, during a meeting with journalists, Volodymyr Zelenskyy outlined a vision for a joint European military force, suggesting it could be built around the Ukrainian army. He emphasized that the Ukrainian military is currently the largest and most experienced in Europe, having been tested in a full-scale war. Zelenskyy stressed that realizing this concept would require legal and bureaucratic steps, as well as sustained financial backing.

The President pointed to the real-world combat experience of Ukrainian soldiers, stating with conviction:

“Everyone understands that we have the largest and most experienced army”

— Volodymyr Zelenskyy. He expressed confidence that the Ukrainian army could serve as the foundation for a unified European force. However, he noted that Ukraine would need more time to complete all the necessary legal and bureaucratic procedures to make this integration possible.

Furthermore, Zelenskyy highlighted the critical need for financial support to retain the expertise of Ukraine's military personnel.

“To ensure their experience is not lost, these people require additional, robust financial support”

— Volodymyr Zelenskyy. These remarks underscore not only the potential of the Ukrainian military but also the necessity of sustained international assistance for its further development and integration into a European defense framework. This proposal comes as European nations reassess their collective security in the wake of Russia's invasion.

The Significance of International Support

The idea of forming a joint European force based on the Ukrainian army could significantly reshape the strategic security landscape of the region. It represents a potential response to the challenges Europe faces from contemporary threats, particularly Russian aggression. Integrating Ukraine into European defense initiatives highlights the vital importance of international cooperation and support in strengthening continental security.