61st Munich Security Conference kicks off: Tensions between US, Ukraine and Russia, EU goal: “necessary to find diplomatic solutions to global tensions”

The 61st Munich Security Conference opened today against a backdrop of heightened geopolitical tensions. The Ukrainian crisis, strained relations between the United States and Russia, and Europe's marginalized role dominate the agenda of the talks. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky, who arrived in Germany to attend the event, has already announced his intention to seek clarification from the United States regarding the recent phone call between Donald Trump and Vladimir Putin. According to Kiev, Washington has developed a peace plan that favors Moscow's demands, sparking discontent in Ukraine and the European Union.

Secretary of State Marco Rubio's Plane Failure

The Conference programme has undergone an unexpected change: US Secretary of State Marco Rubio had to turn back to Washington due to a technical problem with the windshield of his plane, a converted Boeing 757. The failure temporarily left one of the key roles of the US delegation vacant. However, Vice President J.D. Vance is already present in Munich and will participate in crucial meetings with Zelensky.

Zelensky between questions and concerns

The Ukrainian president did not hide his concern about an “imposed peace” by the United States and Russia, excluding Europe from the negotiations. "Ukraine is ready to discuss everything, but only after the United States, Kiev and European partners have defined a common position“, Zelensky told international media.

One of the most anticipated meetings will be between Zelensky and US Vice President JD Vance. Kiev's goal is to obtain guarantees of US neutrality in the negotiations and of Ukraine's long-term independence.. Vance reiterated that the White House maintains a neutral position and assured that the United States is ready to impose new sanctions against Moscow or even consider military intervention if Vladimir Putin were to reject a peace agreement.

The US position: sanctions and military option

The American Vice President declared that “The United States is ready to do anything to ensure Kiev's long-term independence". The option of direct military intervention in Russia appears remote, but Vance did not rule out sending American troops to Ukraine as a last resort, should the Kremlin reject any proposal. of peace.

Meanwhile, Donald Trump announced trilateral talks between representatives of the United States, Russia and Ukraine next week in Saudi Arabia. However, Kiev has already denied its participation, further fueling uncertainty about the future of the negotiations.

The role of the European Union

European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen leads a large EU delegation to the Conference. Europe does not intend to remain on the sidelines of discussions so crucial for global security and has clearly expressed its position.

Before the start of the conference, the president also expressed her opinion on the possibility of responding to the American duties "EU to respond with proportionate countermeasures in case of new US tariffs“, declared von der Leyen.

Among the central themes of the European participation includes climate security, global governance, democratic resilience and international cooperation. Several European Commissioners will give speeches on strategic topics such as artificial intelligence, space security and common European defence.

What is the Munich Security Conference?

Born in 1963, the Munich Security Conference is one of the most important international events to discuss global challenges in security and diplomacy. They participate heads of state, ministers, representatives of international organizations and NGOs to discuss geopolitical crises and global stabilization strategies.

The aim of the Conference is promote international cooperation and seek diplomatic solutions to global tensions. The main theme of this edition is the search for a balance between world powers, with particular attention to the fUkraine's future and transatlantic cooperation.

The event therefore represents represents a crucial moment to redefine the geopolitical balance. The The presence of key figures such as Zelensky, Vance and von der Leyen highlights the importance of this edition, especially in such a delicate historical moment. While Ukraine's future remains uncertain, the hope is that dialogue can prevail over divisions and lead to a peaceful resolution of the conflict.