Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy raised concerns at the Munich Security Conference regarding the potential for Russia to attack NATO countries next year if Ukraine does not receive proper security guarantees. Zelenskyy expressed the belief that, without these assurances, Russian President Vladimir Putin could expand his aggression beyond Ukraine, possibly targeting Poland or the Baltic states. He emphasized that this is his personal assessment, not confirmed intelligence, but warned that Russia may escalate its attacks if not deterred by strong security measures.
The Ukrainian leader also commented on discussions surrounding US-Russia talks, referencing former President Donald Trump’s remarks at the conference, though he expressed uncertainty about the details. Regarding peace talks, Zelenskyy clarified that any negotiations should be led in a specific order: first by the United States, then Europe, and finally Russia. He also stressed the importance of direct involvement from national leaders, including his own, in key decisions about Ukraine’s security, highlighting the sensitive nature of such decisions.
Zelenskyy’s statements underscore his concerns about the broader implications of the war and his appeal for international support to prevent further Russian aggression.