Sat Feb 15 10:19:04 UTC 2025: ## Zelenskyy Calls for European Armed Forces at Munich Security Conference Amidst Transatlantic Tensions
**Munich, Germany** – Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy issued a call for the creation of a unified European armed forces at the Munich Security Conference on Saturday. He argued that the ongoing conflict with Russia has demonstrated the need for such a force, stating that the time for its creation has come. This statement comes amidst heightened transatlantic tensions and a clash of opinions regarding democracy, free speech, and the future of Ukraine.
Zelenskyy’s proposal highlights concerns about potential U.S. reluctance to engage in issues perceived as threatening American interests. He emphasized that while many European leaders have long advocated for a European military, the current situation necessitates its immediate establishment.
Meanwhile, German Chancellor Olaf Scholz strongly defended his government’s stance against the far-right Alternative for Germany (AfD) party, rejecting accusations of U.S. interference in German domestic politics. Scholz’s comments followed a meeting between U.S. Vice President JD Vance and AfD co-leader Alice Weidel, and Vance’s subsequent criticisms of European approaches to democracy and free speech. Scholz emphasized Germany’s commitment to its own democratic processes and its rejection of external interference, drawing parallels to Germany’s Nazi past and the “Never Again” principle.
Vance, however, expressed concerns about the retreat of Europe from fundamental values and warned against the internal threats to European democracy, including restrictions on free speech and rising illegal immigration. He met with Weidel despite mainstream German parties’ refusal to cooperate with the AfD.
Adding further complexity to the situation, U.S. President Donald Trump spoke with Russian President Vladimir Putin about a potential peace deal to end the war in Ukraine, promising Zelenskyy a seat at the negotiating table. Zelenskyy, however, reiterated Ukraine’s demand for security guarantees before any negotiations with Russia. These developments underscore the ongoing uncertainty and shifting dynamics surrounding the conflict and the future of transatlantic relations. The conference continues with various leaders addressing these complex issues.
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