Zelenskyy on Ukraine's role in Europe's security: 'We're holding back millions of Russian invaders'
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy (Photo: president.gov.ua)
President Volodymyr Zelenskyy stated, in an interview with The Guardian, that without the support of the United States, Ukraine’s security guarantees are not comprehensive, and additional military reinforcements for the Armed Forces of Ukraine (AFU) are necessary.
Zelenskyy emphasized that the idea of Europe providing security guarantees for Ukraine without US involvement is flawed and dangerous. He stressed that only Patriot missile defense systems can effectively counter missile attacks. While other systems are of high quality, they do not provide full protection.
According to him, discussing security guarantees without US involvement is unrealistic, as a crucial element of these guarantees is air defense, including F-16 fighter jets and Patriot systems. Without them, all security promises remain conditional.
The Ukrainian president also stated that he intends to raise this issue seriously at the Munich Security Conference.
Zelenskyy also highlighted the imbalance of military forces. Ukraine's armed forces currently consist of 110 combat brigades, while Russia has 220—which could increase to 250 by 2025. In Europe, including US forces stationed there, Zelenskyy estimates that there are only 82 combat brigades.
"Today, Ukraine’s 110 brigades are holding back an enemy with 220 brigades — a 1:2 ratio. A successful offensive requires at least a 1:3 advantage, otherwise, progress is impossible. Without Ukraine, the balance in Europe will shift — Russia will have a 1:3 advantage over Europe," Zelenskyy explained.
The Ukrainian leader also warned that if Ukraine stops resisting, Europe risks facing the threat of occupation.
"This is exactly what the Russians want, and today, we are the ones holding back millions of Russian invaders," he concluded.
Security Guarantees for Ukraine
It is worth noting that US President Donald Trump has repeatedly pledged to end Russia’s war against Ukraine. He has threatened tougher sanctions against Russia and, more recently, reports emerged that Trump wants to negotiate a $500 million deal with Zelenskyy for access to Ukraine’s rare-earth minerals and gas in exchange for security guarantees.
Zelenskyy has also stated that these resources hold strategic value. As part of its victory plan, Ukraine has proposed a deal with the US and other Western allies to protect these critical resources, engage in joint investment, and leverage their economic potential.
More details on rare-earth metals and Trump’s interest in them can be found in RBC-Ukraine’s full report.
