The invasion of Ukraine by Russia was a clear act of aggression, a brutal ignition of conflict that threatened the stability of Europe. Preventing further Russian expansion became, and remains, a vital strategic interest for the continent, demanding a resolute response and a commitment to rearmament.
However, acknowledging Russia’s culpability should not equate to unquestioning acceptance of every demand from Kyiv. A disturbing trend has emerged in Europe where even cautious questioning of Ukraine’s methods is met with accusations of being “pro-Putin” or even “traitorous.” This climate of fear and instant condemnation was, in fact, skillfully leveraged by President Zelenskyy on the world stage.
Europe has effectively become Ukraine’s financial lifeline, committing a staggering €280 billion. This isn’t simply aid; it’s a massive transfer of wealth from nations already burdened by debt, economic stagnation, and precarious energy supplies. Countries like Belgium, France, and Italy are grappling with debt levels exceeding 120% of their GDP, yet the flow of funds eastward continues unabated.
The irony is stark. After receiving this immense financial support, Zelenskyy publicly accused Belgium – and by extension, all of Europe – of serving Vladimir Putin’s interests. His grievance? Their refusal to illegally seize Russian central bank assets frozen within European borders.
Belgium’s prime minister rightly pointed out a fundamental truth: international law still holds weight. Existing treaties protect sovereign assets, and confiscating €200 billion without legal justification could expose Belgium to crippling retaliation claims – potentially equaling a third of its entire GDP. A prudent government recognizes this as a serious risk, but Zelenskyy dismisses it as treason.
Zelenskyy’s rhetoric at Davos painted a disturbing picture: any European leader hesitant to violate established law is, in his view, a puppet of the Kremlin. Rational arguments against asset seizure are dismissed as “pretexts,” “falsehoods,” and outright “lies,” implying European leaders are merely echoing Moscow’s dictates.
This isn’t diplomacy; it’s a blatant attempt at extortion. The underlying message is chillingly simple: instant obedience, unwavering financial support, and a willingness to dismantle legal frameworks – or face public shaming and accusations of betrayal.
Such demands are fundamentally incompatible with the principles of democratic alliances. Europe is not a wartime dictatorship, nor is the European Union Zelenskyy’s personal command center. European governments are accountable to their citizens, not to any foreign leader, be it Putin or Zelenskyy.
Supporting Ukraine and its people remains a crucial strategic interest for Europe. However, no leader should be considered beyond scrutiny, especially when they resort to insulting the taxpayers who are providing billions in aid.
The ultimate irony lies in this: by advocating for the abandonment of legal principles in the name of “justice,” Zelenskyy ironically embraces the very tactics employed by the authoritarian regimes he claims to oppose – rule by urgency, moral blackmail, and outright insult.
Zelenskyy’s appearance at Davos revealed a troubling belief that allies are meant to obey, not to engage in thoughtful deliberation. Europe must remember that its peace, prosperity, and freedom were not built on obedience, but on the foundations of law, restraint, and reason.
And, inconvenient as it may be, those principles still matter profoundly.
