Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy proposed that his country's battle-hardened military could form the backbone of unified European armed forces, according to Euromaidan Press. Responding to a journalist's question at an online press conference on 23 January, he argued that Ukraine has the largest and most combat-experienced army among all European nations.
Zelenskyy sidesteps question on obstacles, focuses on Ukraine's role
The President was asked what currently prevents Europe from creating united armed forces, and what role Ukraine could play in them. Zelenskyy did not address the first question directly. Instead, he focused on making the case for Ukrainian leadership in any future European defense structure.
Ukraine possesses the largest and most experienced army among all European nations, Zelenskyy said.
"We are at war," he explained, arguing this is why Ukraine has the most combat experience among European armies.
He proposed that the Ukrainian army could serve as the foundation for unified European armed forces.
The President acknowledged that creating such a structure would require legal, bureaucratic, and funding steps. But right now, Ukraine cannot focus on them.
"We do not have the time for this because our focus is on the frontline," he said.
Once the war ends, Ukraine would certainly join, Zelenskyy added.
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Europe should fund veteran retention now, Zelenskyy believes
The President warned that many experienced soldiers will seek other careers when fighting stops.
"[O]thers will want to look for different jobs, different pay, and a different path in life," Zelenskyy explained, stressing that Ukraine does not want to lose the experience these veterans have gained.
Strong financial incentives are essential to keep experienced troops in the military, according to the president, and Europe can certainly find these funding sources, Zelenskyy argued.
