Zelensky Urges Unified European Drone Defense Amid Russian Threat

At recent European political gatherings, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky emphasized the urgent need for a unified European defense against escalating Russian drone and missile attacks, highlighting Ukraine's expertise in counter-drone operations and calling for coordinated measures such as the Drone Wall and participation in the PURL program to strengthen regional security. Zelensky also advocated for stronger sanctions targeting not only Russian oil and gas but also entities circumventing restrictions, and called for formalizing security guarantees to protect both Ukraine and Europe. Polish Prime Minister Donald Tusk echoed these concerns, characterizing the conflict as a broader threat to Western civilization and urging Europe to take increased responsibility and act decisively, independent of reliance on the United States. European leaders are discussing proposals to use frozen Russian assets to fund Ukraine’s defense, reflecting a commitment to support Kyiv despite waning U.S. aid under President Trump. The consensus among these leaders is that Russia’s aggression is a direct threat to Europe’s security and democratic values, necessitating solidarity, enhanced cooperation, and long-term strategic planning to counter Moscow’s hybrid warfare and preserve regional stability.