Zelenskyy’s Endgame: Drive A Wedge Between The US And Europe To Keep The War Going

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy is no longer just pleading for military aid—he is actively working to divide the U.S. and Europe in an effort to prevent a peaceful resolution to the war. With President Donald Trump pushing for negotiations with Russia, Zelenskyy has taken a different approach: casting doubt on America’s reliability and using that doubt as a pretext to demand the creation of a European Army.

At the Munich Security Conference, Zelenskyy delivered a speech that seemed designed to undermine trust in the U.S. as a partner. “Let’s be honest now,” he said, “we can’t rule out the possibility that America might say no to Europe on issues that threaten it.” His goal is clear—if he can convince European leaders that the U.S. can no longer be counted on, he can push them into escalating the war rather than ending it.

Zelenskyy’s strategy is about more than just military aid. By driving a wedge between the U.S. and Europe, he is trying to prevent any diplomatic efforts that might force him to accept a ceasefire or peace talks. He knows that without continued Western funding, his war effort is unsustainable. Instead of acknowledging this reality, he is attempting to create a new European military force that will ensure the war continues even if the U.S. steps away.

His proposal was met with a mix of enthusiasm and skepticism. Poland’s Donald Tusk backed the idea of a stronger European military, while others questioned whether Zelenskyy’s call was really about European security or simply about prolonging his own rule. His government has already been plagued by corruption scandals, accusations of misusing Western weapons, and growing discontent at home after canceling elections.

Meanwhile, U.S. Vice President JD Vance held talks with Zelenskyy but did not promise additional military aid. This lack of new commitments from Washington is precisely why Zelenskyy is now shifting tactics—if he cannot force the U.S. to keep funding him, he will try to pressure Europe instead.

While President Trump is working toward a peace deal, Zelenskyy is doing everything in his power to keep the war going. His latest move—pitting the U.S. against Europe—is just another attempt to ensure that he can continue fighting, no matter how many lives it costs.

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