1,000 Days of War and Zelensky keeps urging EU to Strengthen Support as Russia intensifies attacks

On the somber 1,000th day since Russia’s full-scale invasion of Ukraine, the European Parliament convened to deliberate on the ongoing conflict and reaffirm its commitment to Kyiv’s defense. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky, addressing the assembly remotely, called for decisive action to counter Russia’s growing aggression. His speech came on the heels of a significant military escalation: for the first time, Ukraine employed American missiles to strike a military target within Russian territory, signaling a pivotal shift in the dynamics of the war.

Zelensky’s Plea for More Support

Zelensky used the EP to press European nations to bolster their military aid to Ukraine, mirroring the robust support provided by the United States. He urged EU leaders to move past their hesitations about escalating the conflict, stating plainly: “Do not fear giving more now.” The Ukrainian president argued that Russia remains unwilling to engage in meaningful peace negotiations unless its military capabilities—particularly ammunition depots, logistics hubs, and air bases—are systematically degraded.

“We must push Russia toward a just peace,” Zelensky declared, emphasizing that Kyiv must approach any negotiation from a position of strength. He also underscored the critical role of sanctions in weakening Moscow’s war effort, particularly those targeting Russian oil revenues.

Broad Support in Brussels

The Ukrainian president’s call for increased military and economic support resonated with many in the European Parliament. President of the European Parliament Roberta Metsola echoed his sentiment, asserting that peace cannot be achieved without Ukraine’s full participation. “Nothing about Ukraine without Ukraine,” she said, reinforcing the EU’s commitment to Kyiv.

EU Commission President Ursula von der Leyen backed these sentiments with concrete financial pledges, confirming that the bloc would provide €50 billion in support through 2027. This will be supplemented by $50 billion in aid from the G7 and the EU combined through 2026.

Leaders of major political factions within the Parliament also rallied behind Ukraine. Manfred Weber, head of the European People’s Party, urged Germany to deliver Taurus missiles to Kyiv, while Socialist leader Iratxe García Pérez emphasized that words alone are insufficient. “Wars are not won with speeches but with ammunition, tanks, and air defenses. If the EU were attacked tomorrow, would we question the legitimacy of striking back?” she said, challenging those hesitant to allow Ukrainian strikes on Russian territory.

Divisions Persist

While the Parliament showcased broad unity among moderates and liberals, fractures remain, particularly from the sovereigntist bloc. Hungarian MEP Kinga Gal, representing Viktor Orbán’s Fidesz party, criticized the EU’s strategy as ineffective and called for an immediate ceasefire followed by peace negotiations. Gal pointed to Hungary’s significant humanitarian response—providing shelter, healthcare, and education to over 1.4 million Ukrainian refugees—as evidence of Budapest’s commitment to alleviating the crisis. However, she argued that military escalation would not end the war, suggesting instead that diplomatic efforts could gain traction with Donald Trump’s potential return to the U.S. presidency.

A Critical Juncture for Europe

As the war enters its 1,001st day, the European Union finds itself at a crossroads. The choice between escalating military support for Ukraine or pursuing diplomatic alternatives looms large. Meanwhile, concerns over Western unity persist, particularly in light of shifting U.S. political dynamics and the possibility of reduced American involvement in the conflict under a Trump administration.

Zelensky’s message was clear: Europe’s commitment is essential not only to Ukraine’s immediate survival but to ensuring the long-term stability of the region. Yet, the debate in Brussels underscores the growing complexity of sustaining a unified front as the war drags on, testing the resolve of even the staunchest allies.