Cyprus Times

Zelenskyy at Davos: Europe Avoiding Action, Peace Deal Documents 'Almost Ready'

Published January 22, 2026, 15:06
Zelenskyy at Davos: Europe Avoiding Action, Peace Deal Documents 'Almost Ready'

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy, speaking from Davos, criticized Europe for its lack of decisiveness, describing it as a “beautiful but fragmented kaleidoscope of small and medium powers.” He emphasized that Ukraine needs US support to achieve peace, but Europe could play a more significant role if it were more united and determined. Zelenskyy revealed that documents aimed at ending the war are “almost ready,” but stressed the need for strong US backing, including a “backstop” from Donald Trump to address the shadow fleet of tankers funding Russia. He questioned why Europe isn't taking similar measures. He expressed concern over the lack of progress in establishing an international tribunal for Russian war crimes in Ukraine, questioning whether this is due to a lack of time or political will. He thanked leaders who have offered security guarantees to Ukraine, but reiterated the need for continued and robust support. Zelenskyy argued that Europe needs to invest more in its own defense and not rely solely on NATO, raising the question of what would happen if the US doesn't intervene. He pointed out that many countries hadn't met their defense spending commitments before pressure from Trump.