Zelenskyy calls for clear security guarantees from European allies

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy urged European leaders to define clear security guarantees for Ukraine during a virtual meeting, stressing the need for unity and stronger pressure on Russia amid ongoing war.

During a virtual meeting organised in Poland, Zelenskyy met with Polish President Karol Nawrocki and the leaders of Estonia, Latvia, Lithuania, and Denmark following a deadly Russian attack on Kyiv that claimed 22 lives.

He emphasised the importance of establishing concrete security guarantees for Ukraine. 

"And when we talk about security guarantees, we need clear answers - who will help us defend on the ground, in the air and at sea if Russia comes again?" he said. "And how exactly you can take part. I'm asking you to define your role."

Zelenskyy said the meeting helped “synchronise” European positions to increase pressure on Russia ahead of diplomatic talks.

He underlined that the Kremlin, led by Vladimir Putin, remains focused on continuing the war, making clear security commitments essential.

The Ukrainian president also highlighted the need to demonstrate to U.S. President Donald Trump that Europe is united in efforts to end the conflict.

U.S. President Donald Trump has pushed for direct talks between Zelenskyy and Putin and warned of additional sanctions if progress is not made.

Senior Ukrainian officials are scheduled to meet with Trump administration representatives in New York on Friday.

Meanwhile the Kremlin said on Thursday it was still interested in pursuing peace talks over Ukraine, saying that both sides were continuing military strikes, but that Russia remained committed to diplomacy.

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