Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has urged Europe to create its own unified military force, arguing that the continent can no longer assume it will always be protected by the United States.

“To be honest, we can no longer rule out the possibility that the U.S. may turn its back on Europe when it faces serious threats,” Zelensky said at the Munich Security Conference on February 15. “Many leaders have spoken about the need for a European army. I truly believe the time has come to establish a European armed force.”

A Unified European Military?

The concept of a European Army refers to a single, collective military force representing the entire continent, rather than separate national armies.

Zelensky pointed to recent comments by U.S. Vice President JD Vance, whose speech in Munich shocked European leaders by harshly criticizing Europe and questioning U.S. commitments to its allies. The Ukrainian president argued that creating a European military—including Ukraine—would ensure Europe’s security remains in European hands.

“The future of this continent must depend on Europeans, and decisions about Europe should be made in Europe,” Zelensky said.

He also cast doubt on the strength of the U.S.-European alliance, questioning whether Washington still views Europe as a strategic partner:

“Does America need Europe as a market? Yes. But does it see us as an ally? I am not sure. If we want the answer to be ‘yes,’ Europe must speak with one voice instead of many different ones,” he added. “Europe must have a strong, clear policy that makes the U.S. want to stand alongside a powerful continent.”

A Shift in U.S. Policy on European Defense

The Trump administration has repeatedly signaled that it expects Europe to take greater responsibility for its own defense, as Washington prioritizes other global issues. However, U.S. officials insist that America remains committed to NATO.

Earlier this week, Trump stunned European allies by holding a phone call with Russian President Vladimir Putin without consulting them beforehand. Ukrainian officials fear that a direct Trump-Putin meeting could pose significant risks for Kyiv, especially if it happens before Zelensky has a chance to meet the U.S. president.

As tensions rise over the future of European security, Zelensky’s bold call for a European army could reignite debates over the continent’s long-term military strategy and its reliance on the United States.

(Source: Reuters)