Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy called into question the U.S.' commitment to its transatlantic allies, saying President Donald Trump's decision to focus on domestic issues as his first act in office suggested he would not be concerned with the future of Europe, APA reports citing CNBC.
"Right now, all eyes are on Washington, but who's actually watching Europe at the moment?" Zelenskyy asked the audience of business leaders and heads of state gathered in Davos, Switzerland, during his address on Tuesday.
Zelenskyy looked to appeal to European officials and business, warning that the region's security was at risk, as Trump had shown where his priorities lie through his first executive orders, signed after his inauguration Monday.
"Will President Trump even notice Europe? Does he see NATO as necessary, and will he respect EU institutions?" Zelenskyy asked, noting that global relationships are shifting, with Europe now concerned that the U.S. could and would abandon it at a time of need. Washington does not share this worry, Zelenskyy claimed.
"Does anyone in the United States worry that Europe might abandon them some day, might stop being their ally? The answer is 'no'," he told delegates.
"Europe can't afford to be second or third in line of [U.S.] allies. If that happens, the world will start moving forward without Europe ... Europe needs to compete for the top spot in priorities, alliances and technological development."
The region must establish itself as a "strong, global player," the Ukrainian leader said.
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