Zelenskyy Calls Germany Key to Europe’s Security

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has called on Germany to take greater responsibility for Europe's security and freedom, stressing that the continent's future increasingly depends on Berlin's leadership and commitment. Speaking at the Berlin Security Conference, Zelenskyy said that as the United States' role in global affairs could potentially become smaller, Europe's responsibility must grow significantly, adding that such a transition would be impossible without Germany.

Far too much depends on what Germany believes in and whom Germany believes in. The United States’ role in the world may become even smaller. So Europe’s role in the world must become even greater. And without Germany, this is impossible. Without you, freedom will surely lose. Freedom and security in Europe have no alternative to your commitment and your strength. Europe has no alternative to Germany. Please remember that. From the address at the Berlin Security Conference. (1/3)

— Volodymyr Zelenskyy / Володимир Зеленський (@ZelenskyyUa) November 3, 2026

Zelenskyy expressed gratitude to the United States for its military and humanitarian support, acknowledging that American assistance had helped save thousands of Ukrainian lives and prevented millions from becoming refugees. However, he emphasised that Ukraine's survival would not have been possible without Germany, other European nations and the European Union. He said European assistance had prevented Russia from destroying many more Ukrainian cities and villages, underlining the importance of strong international partnerships and collective security.

Highlighting the growing importance of technological independence in defence, Zelenskyy welcomed Germany's efforts to develop its own satellite communication system as an alternative to Starlink. He stressed that control over critical technologies, particularly the ability to switch such systems on or off, is a crucial national security concern. He also warned about emerging threats to satellite infrastructure, arguing that no single country could address these challenges independently.

Concluding his address, Zelenskyy reiterated that European security is a shared responsibility and called for stronger cooperation among European allies. He urged Germany to recognise its strategic importance, stating that Europe's freedom and security have no alternative to German commitment and strength.