
Vikrant Singh Shekhawat
- India,
- 15-Feb-2025,
- (अपडेटेड 15-Feb-2025 07:48 PM IST)
Russia-Ukraine War: Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has made a big statement amid US President Donald Trump's initiative to bring peace in the Russia-Ukraine war. He said that now the time has come to create the 'Armed Forces of Europe'. Zelensky also made it clear that Ukraine's fight against Russia has proved that the basis for the creation of this army already exists.Speaking at the Munich Security Conference, Zelensky said that Europe cannot ignore the possibility that "America can say 'no' to Europe on issues that threaten it." He further said that many European leaders have long been saying that Europe needs its own army.Dissatisfaction over Trump's roleZelensky's statement comes at a time when just a few days ago, US President Donald Trump expressed his commitment to end the Russia-Ukraine war soon during a conversation with Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi. Trump had claimed that he had talked to both Russian President Vladimir Putin and Zelensky on this issue.However, Zelensky seems dissatisfied with this initiative of Trump. He believes that there can be no bilateral talks between the US and Russia on the issue of Ukraine. Zelensky made it clear that Ukraine should also be included in this dialogue. He fears that Trump may take such a decision to please Russia which may be against the interests of Ukraine.Europe's army: Is it possible?After this statement of Zelensky, the debate has intensified whether Europe can really create its own independent armed forces. So far, NATO, which is led by the US, has played a major role in the security of European countries. However, in recent years many EU leaders have stressed the need for their own separate army.If Europe creates its own army, it may change America's global role. This army will give European countries more control over their defense policy and reduce dependence on the US. However, how successful this initiative will be will depend on the future.ConclusionThis statement by Zelensky has not only affected the process of resolving the Russia-Ukraine war but has also sparked a new debate on the European security structure. It will be interesting to see how practical the possibilities of forming an independent military force in Europe are. Also, Zelensky's displeasure over Trump's mediation initiative is an indication that Ukraine is in no mood to make any compromise on its independence and security.