Zelensky Hails European and Global Allies at Munich Security Conference

Europe - Ekhbary News Agency

Zelensky Hails European and Global Allies at Munich Security Conference

At one of the world's premier security gatherings, the Munich Security Conference, which recently concluded, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky seized the opportunity on Saturday, February 14, 2026, to publicly and profoundly thank numerous nations and leaders for their steadfast support of Ukraine in its war against the Russian invasion. This prestigious Ewald von Kleist Award, bestowed upon the Ukrainian people by the Munich Security Conference, served as a powerful affirmation of international solidarity with Kyiv during a critical juncture.

The award ceremony, held in Munich's historic Residenz Palace, an architectural complex dating back to the 14th century, saw the Ukrainian president deliver a meticulously crafted yet direct diplomatic address. Zelensky meticulously named his country's allies one by one, emphasizing the significance of each contribution to the defense of Ukraine's sovereignty and independence.

Acknowledging European Support and Transatlantic Solidarity

Zelensky commenced his speech by expressing gratitude to the leaders of the European Union and the nations that have provided the most substantial assistance to Kyiv. "Thank you, Pedro (Sánchez), for uniting Spain in support of Ukraine," he stated, referring to the Spanish Prime Minister. He specifically acknowledged European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen, remarking, "I want to thank Ursula, who works with us as if we were already part of the European family," a sentiment reflecting Ukraine's aspirations for EU membership.

Zelensky also recognized European Council President António Costa, commending the collective efforts to bolster Ukraine. Addressing Germany, he noted: "Thank you, Friedrich (Merz), who can be a tough partner" but "in the end, is one of those partners whom the whole world truly respects and values. And I thank Germany for its strong and visible leadership," referencing the German opposition leader while underscoring Germany's pivotal role in the alliance.

His list of acknowledgements further included French President Emmanuel Macron, who "is always in contact and always brings strong ideas." He also referenced the leadership of the United Kingdom, represented by Labour opposition leader Keir Starmer, and commended Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni for "caring about Ukrainians only slightly less than about Italians," a comment that drew smiles from the audience.

Unexpected Diplomatic Messages

Zelensky's address was punctuated by moments that elicited applause and laughter, particularly when he extended thanks to "Donald, on the other side of the big, big, big and beautiful ocean." He then added, "President Donald Trump, the only one who truly has the power to stop Russia," a statement that raised eyebrows and questions about potential future political alignments. He also thanked NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte.

In a surprising turn, Zelensky also thanked Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orbán, a figure often at odds with Kyiv and the EU consensus regarding support for Ukraine. "I even want to thank Viktor. You know who I mean because, in his own way, he pushes all of us in Europe to be better," Zelensky said, drawing applause and some laughter. This comment was interpreted by some as a nuanced, perhaps even challenging, diplomatic overture aimed at addressing internal European divisions and encouraging greater cohesion.

Reaffirming Resistance and Unity

Zelensky received the award following a poignant laudatio delivered by Polish Prime Minister Donald Tusk, who, in turn, praised Ukraine's struggle "to resist an enemy" that threatens "the rest of Europe and the Western world." Tusk emphasized that "we are grateful because you have made the rest of the world realize that, without fighting, without the desire to confront evil, without strength or determination, it will not survive."

Tusk, who shared the stage with Zelensky, Bavarian Prime Minister Markus Söder, and Munich Security Conference Chairman Wolfgang Ischinger, concluded by stating: "You are ready to fight," because "you know very well, and I know, how horrible reality is without principles, without love, or without freedoms." This rhetoric underscores that the conflict in Ukraine is a battle for the fundamental values underpinning the Western world, and that international support is not merely assistance, but an investment in the future of global security and stability.

Ekhbary News Agency