The Plea for Peace: Zelensky's Call for Support in Davos

Zelensky's Address at Davos

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky made a passionate plea to leaders at the World Economic Forum in Davos, Switzerland, calling for more weapons to bring about a \\"just and stable\\" peace. Speaking in person at the conference for the first time since Russia launched its full-scale invasion nearly two years ago, Zelensky emphasized the need for support to prevent the war in Ukraine from becoming 'frozen.'

Russian A-50 AWACS command and control aircraft as photographed by Japanese jets on Tuesday.

At the start of Zelensky's address, he acknowledged the difficult questions on the audience's minds, including concerns about the duration of the war, the possibility of a third world war, and the need for negotiations with Putin. He warned against a 'frozen conflict,' citing Russia's renewed aggression in the past, and stressed the necessity for more weapons to achieve a 'just and stable' peace.

Zelensky said the West's fears that supplying weapons would escalate the war cost Ukraine time, lives and opportunities.

Challenges and Setbacks

Despite initial gains in repelling Moscow's forces, Ukrainian President Zelensky highlighted the challenges and setbacks faced in the ongoing conflict. The head of Ukraine's armed forces, Gen. Valery Zaluzhny, warned of a 'stalemate' and the need for technological improvements to avoid devastating losses and destruction. Additionally, distractions from other global conflicts and upcoming elections have diverted attention from Ukraine's plight, posing further challenges to the pursuit of peace.

European Commission President Ursula Von der Leyen said Russia's invasion had been a "military failure."

European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen acknowledged Ukraine's resilience in the face of adversity, citing the country's successes at the war's outset. However, she also emphasized the need for continued support and optimism in the pursuit of peace, despite the obstacles and setbacks.

Call for Support and Action

Zelensky expressed gratitude to allies while also criticizing their hesitance in providing Ukraine with better weapons in a timely manner. He highlighted the detrimental impact of delays and emphasized the importance of not repeating the same mistakes. Furthermore, he urged for increased support and investment in Ukraine's defense, emphasizing the role of air superiority and the need for progress on the ground.

NATO Secretary-General Jens Stoltenberg echoed the call for continued support, emphasizing the significance of military assistance in influencing Putin's decision-making and creating conditions for just and lasting peace. The paradox of sending more weapons to Ukraine to facilitate diplomatic negotiations was underscored as a pivotal strategy in resolving the conflict.