Zelensky Caps Brussels Plea with Germany Visit
In a surprising turn of events, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky touched down in Germany following his impassioned appeal to the EU during the Brussels summit for accelerated accession talks. Confirming his presence in the Rhine-Main area, local police pointed to engagements preventing a detailed disclosure. Traffic was temporarily halted near Wiesbaden as Zelensky's convoy passed through.
Recently, Zelensky had flown into Oslo after visits to Argentina and the USA. His address at the European summit, projected via a video link, urged the EU to avoid disappointing its citizens by inexcusably delaying the start of discussions with Ukraine. In his speech, the president underscored the people of Europe, including those under siege in Ukraine, striving healthcare providers, and educators aiding displaced children in learning environments affected by the Russian aggression.
"Europe should not return to the days of never-ending disputes between capitals," Zelensky asserted. "You can't reward Putin's satisfied grin with a fruitless Brussels summit." Addressing the EU to seize the day, he emphasized, "This day will be recorded in history—whether it brings prosperity or despair."
Brussels Conference Hosts Controversy
Focusing on the EU Commission's proposition to commence negotiations on membership for Ukraine and Moldova, theBrussels summit faces polarization. The Hungarian prime minister, Viktor Orban, centers his objections around Ukraine's failure to fulfill essential reforms.
Opponents of the opposing stance maintain that commencing negotiations holds primarily symbolic significance, as discussions would likely stretch out for several years with Ukraine's accession by the end of the Russian conflict viewed as unrealistic.
Zelensky's Munich Surprise
Contrary to initial assumptions, Zelensky had not visited Germany following the Brussels summit. Instead, he attended the Munich Security Conference, where he delivered a keynote speech demanding the creation of a "European army" to enhance European defense and encourage leaders to take responsibility for the continent's security.
