Zelensky Highlights the Importance of European Participation in Peace Negotiations at the Munich Security Conference.

The President of Ukraine emphasizes the need for security assurances and European involvement in the discussions concerning the conflict with Russia.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky spoke at the Munich Security Conference on Saturday, highlighting that any talks about ending the conflict with Russia must directly include Ukraine and Europe.

Zelensky asserted, "No decisions about Ukraine without Ukraine, no decisions about Europe without Europe. Europe must have a seat at the table." His comments come in the wake of reports that U.S. President Donald Trump plans to meet with Russian President Vladimir Putin to kick off discussions on resolving the conflict, a development Zelensky described as surprising for both Ukraine and its European partners.

He urged Washington to create a "common plan" to address the situation with Russia, noting a lack of cohesion following a meeting with U.S. Vice President JD Vance on Friday.

Zelensky emphasized that any ceasefire agreement must hinge on "real security guarantees," which he argued should include significant sanctions against Russia and increased military support for Ukraine.

In his speech, Zelensky conveyed that Kyiv was open to the idea of European troops serving as peacekeepers in Ukraine, but recognized the necessity of negotiating the logistics with European allies.

He pointed out the view that the U.S. appeared to be paving the way for discussions between Trump and Putin, warning that Putin might seek to exploit Trump for his own interests, potentially extending an invitation to Russia’s World War II victory parade in May.

"We must apply pressure together—to achieve real peace," Zelensky stated, maintaining that "Putin cannot provide real security guarantees," based on the belief that Russia needs conflict to maintain its power domestically.

He mentioned ongoing negotiations regarding a potential deal with Washington for access to Ukraine’s rare earth minerals in exchange for security support.

Zelensky's remarks included a broader appeal to European leaders, encouraging them to "act for your own sake" amidst uncertainties about U.S. backing against Russian aggression.

He called for European solidarity and proposed the creation of a European army to strengthen the continent’s defenses against external threats.