Europe needs unified army of at least 3 million, Zelenskyy says

According to the President, the formation of the European Armed Forces is not a competition with the US or the Alliance, but a response to Europe's need to have its own strong army.

"Having European Armed Forces does not mean competing with America. It means that Europe, as a separate continent, must have its own strong army. This does not destroy or replace NATO," Zelenskyy emphasizes.

He notes that Ukraine could become one of the key elements of such an army if European leaders support the idea. According to him, this is not only about the number of military personnel—at least 3 million—but also about the systematic exchange of technologies.

The President stresses that Ukraine is already sharing its combat experience and technologies proven in war with its partners, particularly in the field of air target interception. In return, partner countries provide intelligence and other capabilities.

"Without our military experience, some countries would not even know how their weapons actually work. Thanks to Ukraine, these systems are being refined," Zelenskyy says.

He separately emphasizes that the concept of the European Armed Forces envisages not only a joint army, but also an extensive system of weapons depots, air defense, and military technologies throughout Europe, which will strengthen the overall security of the continent.

Background

US President Donald Trump's threats to impose harsh trade tariffs on any countries that try to prevent him from establishing control over Greenland were the final signal for Europe to take action.

According to Politico, European countries are planning to create a new military alliance to counterbalance NATO, which may also include Ukraine.