Zelensky dismisses UN role, Czech Republic offers military aid
Volodymyr Zelensky dismissed Emmanuel Macron’s proposal to deploy a United Nations mission in Ukraine, arguing that the UN would not provide adequate protection against occupation or deter Putin’s intentions to reassert control.
- President of Ukraine Volodymyr Zelensky expressed skepticism about Emmanuel Macron's proposal regarding a UN mission, emphasizing that it will not replace the European military contingent.
- Zelensky noted that the UN is not capable of protecting Ukraine from Russian aggression, a point he emphasized during a press conference with Czech President Petr Pavel.
- Czech President Petr Pavel declared his country's readiness to participate in a potential military mission in Ukraine.
Zelensky rejects Macron's proposal
President of Ukraine Volodymyr Zelensky clearly expressed his position on the proposal by French President Emmanuel Macron regarding the creation of a UN mission.
"With all due respect, the UN will not protect us from occupation or (Vladimir) Putin's desire to come again. We do not consider the UN as an alternative to the contingent or security guarantees," Zelensky stated during a press conference with Czech President Petr Pavel.
Will Russia not be intimidated by the UN?
The President of Ukraine noted that Russia has repeatedly violated international norms, which makes it unafraid of UN actions.
"Certainly, when there are troops, whose origin is known, when there is air defence, and there are ships, planes, and a serious army, and real intelligence from our partners here in Ukraine, certainly opposing such a force will be very dangerous. Will Russia be afraid of the UN? They have already violated everything in this war, so I don't think they will be afraid," added the President of Ukraine.
Earlier, "The Telegraph" reported that French President Emmanuel Macron actively explores alternatives to the deployment of European forces in Ukraine.
Czech Republic declares readiness
During the same press conference, Czech President Petr Pavel declared his country's readiness to participate in a potential military mission in Ukraine.
Pavel confirmed that a meeting was held in London on Thursday at the chiefs of staff level, aimed at discussing the possible terms for deploying a military presence in Ukraine. He stated that the Czech Republic is prepared to take part in these talks and expressed confidence that, if a final decision is made to establish such a force, Czechia will be among the participating nations.
