Ukraine Offers Drone Defense Expertise to EU

Ukraine Offers Drone Defense Expertise to EU

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has urged European nations to bolster their defenses against modern threats, highlighting Ukraine’s unique experience in countering drones and other aerial attacks. Speaking to EU ministers, Zelenskyy emphasized that Ukraine’s battlefield expertise, gained through continuous Russian aggression, offers a vital security guarantee for Europe.

Broader Conflicts Linked

Zelenskyy began his address by noting the dangerous global moment, with Russia’s war in Ukraine ongoing and a new conflict escalating in the Middle East. He pointed out the direct link between these conflicts, specifically mentioning Iran’s role in designing and mass-producing drones used by Russia. Both nations, he stated, use these weapons to attack their neighbors, underscoring a shared threat.

“Both Russia and Iran use them to attack their neighbors. In the face of this, we stand together.”

Ukraine’s Unique Defense Capabilities

The President highlighted Ukraine’s advanced drone defenses, stating that the country possesses the best technology in this area. He explained that effectively countering drones requires specific interceptors, an area where Ukraine excels. This expertise, he argued, is not just for Ukraine’s benefit but can serve as a crucial contribution to broader European security.

Lessons from History and Bucha

Recalling the liberation of Kyiv four years prior, Zelenskyy reminded attendees of the brutality Russia has inflicted. He specifically referenced the atrocities in Bucha as a stark example of Russia’s merciless warfare. This, he stressed, serves as a reminder that territorial concessions involve not just land but also the people living on it, referencing the suffering witnessed in Bucha.

Zelenskyy drew parallels to historical European struggles for freedom, mentioning events like the Miracle on the Vistula, the Prague Spring, and Finland’s fight for independence. He argued that these historical events demonstrate that the European way of life is not guaranteed and that failing to confront enemies promptly can lead to severe consequences.

Call for Joint Production and Support

The President proposed that Europe should not only produce known defense systems but also develop and manufacture what is proven effective in modern warfare. He revealed that Ukraine has already begun cooperating with countries in the Middle East and the Gulf, such as Saudi Arabia, the UAE, Qatar, Kuwait, and Jordan, to share its experience in countering drones and building layered defense systems. He believes Europe also needs these capabilities and has started working with some European nations on this front.

A critical point of his address focused on the need for Europe to produce all types of missiles and defense systems independently, reducing reliance on external partners. He urged the EU to implement decisions swiftly, citing the delayed 90 billion euro loan package for Ukraine, which is reportedly blocked by a single member state’s opposition to please Moscow. This delay, he noted, impedes crucial preparations for the upcoming winter, impacting people’s lives.

Economic Pressure on Russia

Zelenskyy reiterated the importance of choking off Russia’s oil revenues, calling for stronger sanctions and the dismantling of its shadow fleet. He emphasized that Russia must not profit from the war or gain an advantage in new technologies shaped by the conflict. He stressed that Russia must not be left in a position better than before the war, either territorially, technologically, or politically.

EU Membership as a Security Guarantee

Finally, Zelenskyy made a strong case for Ukraine’s EU membership, stating it is a security guarantee for both Ukraine and Europe. He argued that Russia understands Ukraine’s potential better than some in Europe and actively works to prevent Ukraine’s accession. He urged for the opening of accession clusters and the setting of a clear date for Ukraine’s membership, viewing it as a critical step to ensure Russia’s failure and Ukraine’s success.

Diplomatic Efforts and Ceasefire Proposal

Regarding diplomatic efforts, Zelenskyy mentioned proposing a ceasefire for the Easter holidays and expressed hope for U.S. support in bringing Russia to a trilateral meeting to press for peace. He stated that Russia has shown no intention of making a reliable deal, emphasizing that pressure is key. He also thanked partners for acting in time and supporting initiatives that protect skies from drones and missiles.

Source: ⚡️Zelensky URGENTLY addressed EU! These words shocked hall. Kallas responded (YouTube)