Zelensky Criticizes Europe's Inaction at Davos Forum

Ukrainian Leader Expresses Frustration Over Lack of Progress in War

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky delivered a passionate and critical speech at the World Economic Forum in Davos on January 22, 2026, expressing deep frustration with what he called 'no real progress' in the war against Russia despite numerous international meetings. The Ukrainian leader, who has been leading his country through the ongoing conflict since Russia's full-scale invasion in 2022, pulled no punches in his assessment of European support.

Meeting with Trump and Peace Prospects

Zelensky's speech came after a significant meeting with former U.S. President Donald Trump, who is attending the Davos forum. The two leaders spoke for approximately an hour, with both describing their meeting as 'good' and 'productive.' Trump reiterated his position that 'the war has to stop,' while Zelensky revealed that documents aimed at ending the conflict were 'almost ready.'

'The last kilometer is always very difficult,' Zelensky told the audience, referring to the final stages of peace negotiations. 'Everyone is very positive, but President Trump's support is needed.'

Sharp Criticism of European Response

While thanking Europe for freezing Russian assets and acknowledging commitments from leaders like British Prime Minister Keir Starmer and French President Emmanuel Macron, Zelensky expressed disappointment with what he sees as insufficient action. He specifically criticized European countries for their response to the situation in Iran, stating that while politicians debated positions after holiday breaks, the Iranian regime had already killed thousands.

'If the Iranian regime survives, it sends a clear signal to every tyrant: kill enough people and you stay in power,' Zelensky warned.

Questions About NATO's Effectiveness

The Ukrainian president raised serious questions about NATO's reliability, noting that while Europe fully trusts the alliance to intervene in case of danger, 'no one has ever really seen the alliance in action.' He questioned what would happen if countries like Poland or Lithuania were attacked, suggesting that NATO relies on U.S. intervention but that this cannot be guaranteed.

Upcoming Trilateral Talks

Zelensky announced that 'technical' talks between Ukraine, the United States, and Russia would take place this week in the United Arab Emirates. He expressed hope that Russia would be willing to make compromises, though he acknowledged that Moscow has been obstructive in previous negotiations.

The speech comes amid ongoing Russian attacks on Ukrainian energy infrastructure that have left thousands without heating during one of the harshest winters since the invasion began. Zelensky's appearance at Davos marks a significant diplomatic effort to maintain international attention on Ukraine's plight and secure concrete commitments for ending the conflict.

For more information on Zelensky's presidency and Ukraine's situation, visit Wikipedia.