But Europe knows Mr Zelensky deserves to be taken seriously. The “special military operation” he launched this day four years ago has resulted in the greatest loss of life on the continent since the end of World War II. “Moscow continues to invest in strikes more than in diplomacy,” Mr Zelensky said. Mr Zelensky makes the case it is not about territory but people. Europe knows it must step up and become more forceful and autonomous.

Source: Irish Independent February 24, 2026 11:32 UTC