Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky, in a poignant speech to French deputies on Friday, underscored the dire state of Europe as it grapples with the Russian invasion of Ukraine. 'Europe is no longer a continent of peace,' Zelensky lamented, reflecting on the current turmoil that stands in stark contrast to Europe’s values of freedom, equality, and fraternity. He noted, 'cities are completely destroyed, and villages are burned,' as filtration camps, deportations, and hatred resurface in Europe, drawing parallels with the dark times of the past.
Thanking France for its unwavering military and diplomatic support, Zelensky expressed optimism despite the challenges. 'Can we win this battle? Certainly, yes,' he asserted, emphasizing the crucial role of international assistance. He praised Emmanuel Macron's announcement to transfer Mirage 2000-5 fighter planes to Ukraine, viewing it as a testament to Europe’s ability to overcome evil.
An international peace summit is set to take place on June 15 and 16 in Switzerland, which Zelensky hopes will bring Ukraine closer to 'the end of the war.' This summit, which welcomes over a hundred countries and organizations, aims to pave the way towards a just peace, albeit notably excluding Russia. According to Zelensky, it's a critical juncture for collective action against a 'common enemy.'
The Ukrainian President's address was met with prolonged applause, highlighting the French National Assembly's solidarity with Ukraine. He recounted the valor of Allied combatants during WWII, connecting their victories with the hope and humanity that Europe stands for today. Yet, Zelensky warned of the ongoing threat, with 'Nazism unfortunately returning' through Russia's aggressive actions.
Zelensky stressed that today’s conflict in Ukraine poses a risk to other nations tomorrow. He warned that the Kremlin might find ways to destabilize Europe, reiterating, 'This Russian regime no longer knows any limits.' Amidst mounting Russian advances, Volodymyr Zelensky affirmed that Ukrainians, with European support, are determined to defend peace and freedom, embodying the strength and unity reminiscent of the past Allies.
His speech also detailed the importance of air defense for Ukraine, a day after France’s commitment to sending Mirage-2000 planes. Zelensky believes these 'fighter planes' and 'fighters' symbolize Europe’s resilience and could prove that 'Europe is stronger than the evil that threatened it.'
Zelensky thanked President Emmanuel Macron for ensuring Europe and Ukraine were not left leaderless during critical times, hinting at the strategic alliance cultivated through France's support. He highlighted the Peace Summit in Switzerland as a potential turning point towards a 'just end of this war,' akin to a new 'D-Day' for Ukraine.
In closing, Zelensky called for continued and robust support from France and Europe. His message was clear: 'For just peace, more is needed.' This is not a critique but a plea for decisive action to overcome the pervasive evil faced by Ukraine and potentially Europe.
- As the Ukrainian president addressed the French National Assembly, notable diplomatic engagements continued in the backdrop. Zelensky had conversations with U.S. President Joe Biden, who was in France for D-Day commemorations, strengthening international solidarity.
- The situation in Europe is fraught with other significant events, including the looming threat of strikes within the French energy sector, which could impact gas and electricity supplies amid the Paris Olympic and Paralympic Games.
- The 80th anniversary of the D-Day landings also saw French President Emmanuel Macron emphasizing the legacy of Charles de Gaulle and the renaissance of a 'universal and proud' France.
