Zelensky: Russia wants NATO to act even without the US

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy said on Monday at the Warsaw Security Forum that his country wants to work with European partners to build a joint air defense shield to protect against threats from Russia.

NATO leaders emphasized that Russia is testing the alliance's readiness and determination by violating the airspace of Poland and the Baltic states. Kyiv stated that its experience in dealing with air threats could be of great benefit.

When asked about Donald Trump, Zelensky replied that the US president's attitude toward Ukraine and security in Europe had changed.

“My impression today is that President Trump's attitude is actually balanced and supports Ukraine's position, although he undoubtedly wants to remain a mediator between us and Russia in order to end this war.”

He added that Russia was not creating new borders in Ukraine and, in his opinion, wanted NATO to respond in part without the United States.

He also emphasized that Ukraine “must join the European Union – and it will.”

(reuters, max)