During his speech at the European Political Community meeting held in Yerevan, Zelenskyy emphasized that Moscow's decision not to display heavy military equipment during the commemoration of the victory over Nazism is a clear "sign of weakness" from the Kremlin. According to the Ukrainian leader, Russian forces "are no longer as strong as they used to be."
This warning is particularly relevant after confirming that a Ukrainian drone recently hit a building just 10 kilometers from the Kremlin. Intelligence reports indicate that President Vladimir Putin is increasingly isolated and sheltered in bunkers, having ordered a drastic increase in his personal security measures out of fear of new attacks targeting the heart of Russian power.
Simultaneously, within the European Union, there is a climate of concern about the possibility of Russia attempting a move against a EU country in the short term. The progressive withdrawal of the United States from the eastern flank of NATO, combined with European armies still in the process of increasing their capabilities, has created a window of vulnerability. Therefore, continental leaders insist on the urgency of strengthening the "European pillar" of the Atlantic Alliance to ensure autonomous defense.
Economically, the allied strategy has been reinforced by the unblocking of a 90 billion euro credit for the defense of Ukraine. This fund, which had been blocked by the government of Viktor Orbán, was released after his electoral defeat on April 12. Additionally, British Prime Minister Keir Starmer has agreed with Commission President Ursula von der Leyen on the UK's participation in this loan. Brussels reaffirms that Ukraine is the first line of defense for the Union, and that its military resilience is vital for common security.