Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has raised concerns over the United States’ dedication to its transatlantic alliances, suggesting that President Donald Trump’s early policy decisions signal a shift in focus away from Europe. Speaking at the World Economic Forum in Davos, Switzerland, Zelenskyy urged European leaders and businesses to take note of growing security risks in the region.
“Right now, all eyes are on Washington, but who’s actually watching Europe?” Zelenskyy asked an audience of global business leaders and state officials during his Tuesday address. He highlighted Trump’s initial executive orders, which include pausing the TikTok ban, declaring a national border emergency, and reversing climate commitments, as evidence of a “domestic-first” approach.
Zelenskyy’s remarks served as a direct appeal to Europe, warning that the region risks being sidelined as the U.S. recalibrates its priorities. “Will President Trump even notice Europe? Does he see NATO as necessary, and will he respect EU institutions?” Zelenskyy questioned, noting that Washington appears unconcerned about the possibility of losing European support.
“Does anyone in the United States worry that Europe might abandon them some day, might stop being their ally? The answer is ‘no’,” he stated. He called on Europe to secure its place as a leading global power, emphasizing the importance of competing for top-tier status in alliances, technological advancements, and security arrangements. “Europe can’t afford to be second or third in line. If that happens, the world will start moving forward without Europe.”
The Ukrainian leader’s appearance in Davos provided Kyiv a crucial platform to advocate for its peace proposals amidst mounting international pressure for a ceasefire with Russia. February marks the third year of Russia’s invasion, and war fatigue is growing as uncertainty looms over future aid for Ukraine.
While Western allies have pledged to sustain military support for Kyiv, Trump’s stance on U.S. assistance has been far less clear. During his campaign, Trump claimed he could end the war in 24 hours but has hinted at a willingness to pressure Ukraine into peace talks with Moscow.
European partners, meanwhile, have voiced fears that Ukraine could be pushed into an unfavorable deal, potentially ceding occupied territories to Russia. Such an agreement, critics argue, could allow Russia to regroup and launch renewed offensives in the future.
Zelenskyy expressed concern that Europe might be excluded from any future peace negotiations. “Right now, it’s not clear whether Europe will even have a seat at the table when the war against our country ends,” he warned, adding that U.S. talks with Russia and China could marginalize European influence. “We are deeply grateful to Europe for all the support it has given our country, but will President Trump listen to Europe or negotiate without them?”
President Trump’s ambivalence toward Ukraine has been a recurring theme. While he has praised Zelenskyy as “very honorable” on one hand, he has also described him as “the greatest salesman.” Recognizing their precarious position, Ukrainian officials have sought to build a rapport with the newly inaugurated U.S. president.
Congratulating Trump on his electoral victory, Zelenskyy took to X (formerly Twitter) to express appreciation for Trump’s “peace through strength” philosophy. Kyiv remains optimistic that Trump’s administration could foster progress toward peace.
Maxim Timchenko, CEO of Ukraine’s largest energy company, DTEK, echoed Zelenskyy’s sentiment in an interview with CNBC. “All Ukrainians want a resolution as much as anyone else, but it’s not just about a resolution. It’s about fairness, a just peace,” he emphasized. Timchenko expressed confidence that Trump’s approach could facilitate lasting peace while promoting shared values between the U.S. and Ukraine.
Timchenko also pointed to opportunities for U.S.-Ukraine collaboration in energy security and reconstruction. “I trust President Trump. We have common values, and I’m confident he will protect these values as we rebuild a new Ukraine,” he said.
Zelenskyy’s Davos address underscored a broader challenge for Europe: to assert its relevance and influence in a rapidly evolving global order. As Trump’s policies take shape, the transatlantic alliance faces a critical juncture. Will Europe rise to the occasion, or will it be relegated to the sidelines in the decisions that shape its future? For Ukraine, the stakes could not be higher.
