Europe Needs Its Own 'Iron Dome' and a Unified Defence and Security Policy, - President Zelenskyy in Davos
Europe must maintain unity, increase defence spending, ensure energy independence and be able to guarantee security. This was stated by President of Ukraine Volodymyr Zelenskyy in his speech to the participants of the World Economic Forum in Davos.
‘We need a common European security and defence policy, and all European countries must be ready to spend as much on security as is really necessary, not as much as they have been used to over the years of negligence. If 5% of GDP is needed for defence, then it should be 5%,’ Volodymyr Zelenskyy said.
He noted that despite the fact that Russia's overall economic potential is much smaller than Europe's, Russia produces several times more ammunition and military equipment than all of Europe combined. In addition, Russia is increasing its cooperation with Iran and North Korea. That is why it is important to maintain unity in Europe.
The President stressed that Ukraine had created models of defence cooperation that could make the whole of Europe stronger. It is about joint production of artillery and drones, including unique ones that have no analogues in the world. In addition, the Head of State called for joint creation of air defence systems that can cope with all types of cruise and ballistic missiles.
‘Europe needs its own Iron Dome capable of withstanding any threats. We cannot rely on the goodwill of a few capitals when it comes to the security of Europe,’ Volodymyr Zelenskyy said.
He also stressed that no European country should be dependent on a single energy supplier, especially Russia, and the policy of US President Donald Trump could help in this regard. Separately, the Head of State noted that Europe should be able to guarantee peace and security for itself and for others.
‘Europe deserves to be strong. And for this, Europe needs the EU and NATO. Is it possible without Ukraine and without a fair end to Russia's war against Ukraine? I am convinced that it is not. Only true security guarantees for us will be true security guarantees for everyone in Europe. And we must ensure that America also considers us necessary,’ Volodymyr Zelenskyy concluded.