There are only two choices: either the world stops Russia’s aggression, or Russia drags the world into its war, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy said in his New Year’s Day address to the nation.
Earlier, NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte made a similar warning during a speech in Berlin, stating that the Alliance could become Russia’s next target and that Europe is already at risk, as per The Guardian.
“It’s shocking that after ... four years of this war, we still have to explain this to so many people in Europe. Even as leaders change, the questions remain the same,” Zelenskyy stressed.
Understanding must not come with Russian equipment on European streets
In addition, Zelenskyy emphasized that peace must be accompanied by support and understanding that the aid is critical.
“Does Europe understand this? Yes. Does all of Europe understand this? No. I do not want that understanding to be brought to Europeans by armored vehicles with the letter “Z” on their streets,” Zelenskyy warned.
The first bell of Russian future aggression
Zelenskyy also referenced Russian President Vladimir Putin’s statements as indicators of ongoing threats.
“When Putin says, ‘We don’t plan to attack you,’ this is the first bell signaling where his tanks will move and where his drones will fly,” he said.
The next question will be: why support Poland?
Ukraine today has the right to say it is the only shield protecting a comfortable European life from the "Russian world," Zelenskyy added.
“Most leaders don’t question why they should support Ukraine. Because if, God forbid, Ukraine falls, the next question will be: why support Poland? Who will defend the Baltic states? What happens to NATO without Ukraine?” he explained.
He stressed that Ukraine needs Europe, and Europe needs Ukraine more than ever.
Zelenskyy insisted that any peace agreement must be just and acceptable to the Ukrainian people.
“If peace is unfair, fragile, and Moscow attacks again… I don’t want disappointed Ukrainians burning portraits of European and American leaders in the squares,” he said.
"It is about defending all of Europe"
The Ukrainian president highlighted countries actively supporting Ukraine, including the Netherlands, Sweden, Norway, Poland, Spain, Denmark, Germany, France, and the UK.
“Danish Prime Minister Mette has always said: we are not doing enough for Ukraine; we must do more, because it is about defending all of Europe,” Zelenskyy added.
He concluded with heartfelt thanks: “I sincerely thank everyone in the world who stands on the bright side of history, on Ukraine’s side, and does everything so Ukraine can achieve its goals, push forward, and bring the country closer to peace.”
