Volodymyr Zelenskyy on Eastern Europe
Volodymyr Zelenskyy's perspective on Eastern Europe is intrinsically linked to Ukraine's sovereignty and its struggle against Russian aggression, which he views as a threat to the entire region's security architecture. He has consistently framed Ukraine's aspirations as fundamentally European, seeking EU and NATO membership as the ultimate guarantor of its independence and a necessary step for full integration into the continent's political and security structures. His tenure has been characterized by rallying support from neighbors and allies in Eastern Europe, such as Poland, the Baltic States, and Hungary, positioning Ukraine as a crucial front in defending democratic values against Vladimir Putin's revanchist aims.
Zelenskyy's pre-2022 engagement also touched upon bilateral relations with other regional players, notably supporting Azerbaijan's territorial integrity during the Nagorno-Karabakh war, mirroring Ukraine's own stance on its occupied territories. His foreign policy has also involved attempts to engage other global blocs, such as the African Union and Mercosur, to broaden international awareness and support against the full-scale invasion.
His government has also taken domestic steps reflecting a clear pivot away from Russian influence, including banning pro-Russia political parties and supporting the separation of the Ukrainian Orthodox Church from the Moscow Patriarchate. These actions underscore a long-term vision for a secure, independent Ukraine firmly anchored in the European political space, distinct from the post-Soviet sphere of influence Russia attempts to maintain.
Context
Volodymyr Zelenskyy's views on Eastern Europe are central to his presidency, as Ukraine is geographically and geopolitically situated at the intersection of the European Union, NATO, and Russia. His pre-presidency focused on internal unity, but since 2019, his main foreign policy driver has been countering Russian expansionism, a direct threat to all neighboring Eastern European states. His consistent appeal to EU and NATO structures signifies a definitive break from the historical sphere of influence exerted by Moscow over the region.
Actions Taken
- Foreign Policy ApplicationApplied for Ukraine to join the European Union shortly after the full-scale Russian invasion began.
- Domestic LegislationSupported the suspension of 11 Ukrainian political parties with ties to Russia.
- Diplomatic VisitVisited Kyiv allies, including Polish Prime Minister Mateusz Morawiecki, Czech Prime Minister Petr Fiala, and Slovenian Prime Minister Janez Janša, in a clear show of regional solidarity after the invasion began.
- Policy DecreeSigned a decree in March 2021 approving the strategy for the de-occupation and reintegration of Crimea and Sevastopol.
Key Quotes
We support Azerbaijan's territorial integrity and sovereignty just as Azerbaijan always supports our territorial integrity and sovereignty.
Good Lord, what do you want? Leave our land. If you don't want to leave now, sit down with me at the negotiating table. But not from 30 meters away, like with **Macron** and **Scholz**.
What Others Say
French President Emmanuel Macron engaged with Zelenskyy to facilitate dialogue with Russia and was involved in Normandy Format talks concerning the Donbas conflict.
Polish President Andrzej Duda was one of the first European leaders to congratulate Zelenskyy on his 2019 election victory, indicating early regional support.