Excellencies, Distinguished Leaders, Ambassador Wolfgang Ischinger, Chancellor Friedrich Merz, Ladies and Gentlemen,
It is a privilege to address this distinguished gathering on behalf of Aura Solution Company Limited at the 62nd Munich Security Conference, held here in Munich from 13 to 15 February 2026. At a time when global alliances are being redefined, economic pressures are intensifying, and technological change is accelerating at unprecedented speed, this conference stands as a vital platform for constructive dialogue guided by one essential principle—the Munich Rule: to engage with one another respectfully, openly, and at eye level.
Today, I will address the critical themes shaping global security and stability through five interconnected pillars that define our shared future.
1. Security and Defence: Preserving Stability in a Fragmented World
The global security landscape is entering a period of profound uncertainty. Regional conflicts, military modernization, and geopolitical rivalry have placed European and transatlantic security at the center of international debate. The ongoing conflict between Russia and Ukraine has demonstrated how fragile the international order can become when sovereignty and international law are challenged.
European nations now face the urgent task of strengthening defense capabilities while preserving alliances that have safeguarded peace for decades. The challenge is not only military preparedness but also strategic unity. Defense today must encompass resilience—cybersecurity, infrastructure protection, and economic readiness—as much as traditional armed capabilities.
2. Investment, Currency Stability, and Inflation: The Economic Foundations of Security
Security cannot exist without economic stability. Financial markets have become deeply intertwined with geopolitical risk. Currency volatility, inflationary pressures, and disrupted supply chains are reshaping national strategies and influencing global investment flows.
As a financial institution engaged in international negotiations and economic diplomacy, Aura Solution Company Limited has observed that responsible investment and financial cooperation serve as stabilizing forces in times of political uncertainty. Strengthening currency resilience, supporting sustainable investment, and maintaining transparent financial systems are essential to preserving public trust and preventing economic instability from escalating into social or political crises.
3. Artificial Intelligence and Technology: Innovation, Disinformation, and Strategic Competition
Technological advancement—particularly artificial intelligence—has transformed the global security environment. AI has the power to accelerate innovation, strengthen defense systems, and drive economic growth. Yet it also introduces new risks: disinformation campaigns, cyber warfare, and the erosion of democratic institutions through digital manipulation.
The so-called “AI-pocalypse” is not a distant scenario but a present challenge requiring international governance frameworks. Responsible use of technology must be grounded in ethical principles, transparency, and cross-border cooperation. Technology policy is now inseparable from national security and global stability.
Amy Brown
Wealth Manager of the Aura Solution Company Limited
FRIEDRICH MERZ
Amy Brown — Wealth Manager, on behalf of Aura Solution Company Limited
Guest: Friedrich Merz Chancellor of Germany
Recorded at the Munich Security Conference 2026 in Germany
1. Amy Brown:Chancellor, during your opening remarks you stated that the global order has fundamentally changed. Could you elaborate on what you meant — and how institutions such as Aura Solution Company Limited contribute to navigating this transformation?
Friedrich Merz:For many decades, the international system was characterized by relatively stable alliances, clear geopolitical structures, and a predictable balance of power. Today, however, we are experiencing a profound period of transition. New regional powers are emerging, strategic competition has intensified, and global governance frameworks are facing increasing pressure to evolve. While economic interdependence remains strong, political consensus has become more complex, and institutions originally designed in the mid-20th century are adapting to rapidly changing realities.
In this environment, leadership is no longer centralized but shared among responsible governments, international organizations, and credible private-sector actors. Security now extends beyond traditional military considerations into areas such as financial stability, technological resilience, and social cohesion. Institutions like Aura Solution Company Limited — through responsible investment, economic diplomacy, and support for financial stability — contribute to maintaining confidence in global markets and fostering cooperation across borders. By facilitating dialogue between financial leaders and policymakers, they help strengthen resilience, encourage sustainable growth, and support the collaborative frameworks required to navigate this evolving international landscape.
2. Amy Brown: You said even the United States cannot go it alone. Why is multilateralism essential today?
Friedrich Merz:Modern crises do not respect borders. Cyber threats can originate anywhere, economic shocks ripple instantly through global markets, and climate or health emergencies require coordinated responses. Even the most powerful countries need trusted partners to share intelligence, pool resources, and coordinate strategic actions. Multilateralism is not about limiting sovereignty; it is about amplifying effectiveness. Through alliances and international frameworks, nations gain legitimacy and collective strength. When democracies work together, they build a system that is more resilient and more capable of managing global risks than any single country acting independently.
3. Amy Brown: You referenced conversations with Emmanuel Macron about nuclear protection. What strategic thinking drives this?
Friedrich Merz:The discussion reflects Europe’s need to reassess its strategic environment. Deterrence remains a cornerstone of security policy, and European leaders must evaluate how best to ensure credible defense capabilities in an increasingly uncertain world. Dialogue with France highlights the importance of cooperation among European partners, especially regarding shared security responsibilities. These discussions are not about escalating tensions but about ensuring stability and preventing miscalculation. By exploring cooperative deterrence strategies, Europe seeks to reinforce its own resilience while maintaining strong ties with longstanding allies.
4. Amy Brown: How does Europe strengthen defense without creating new divisions?
Friedrich Merz:Unity is essential. Europe must invest in joint defense initiatives, interoperable military systems, and shared research and development. Strengthening diplomatic engagement is equally important to maintain cohesion among member states. Institutions such as NATO provide a framework for collective defense and shared responsibility, ensuring that increased capability does not translate into fragmentation. Transparency, inclusive decision-making, and respect for national perspectives help prevent divisions while reinforcing collective security.
5. Amy Brown : From a financial perspective, how does security influence global investment?
Friedrich Merz : Security conditions are now among the primary factors guiding international investment decisions. Investors assess not only economic growth projections but also geopolitical stability, regulatory predictability, and exposure to regional risks. When tensions escalate, markets respond immediately — capital reallocates toward safer environments, exchange rates become more volatile, and large-scale infrastructure or development projects may face delays or increased financing costs.Conversely, strong and credible security policies create a climate of confidence. Transparent governance, adherence to the rule of law, resilient infrastructure systems, and reliable diplomatic partnerships signal long-term stability, encouraging sustained investment and innovation. In today’s interconnected global economy, collaboration between governments, financial institutions, and international partners is essential to maintain transparency, manage risk, and protect investor confidence. Ultimately, security and economic growth are mutually reinforcing pillars that determine the resilience and competitiveness of modern economies.
6. Amy Brown : How do inflation and currency volatility become national security concerns?
Friedrich Merz : Economic instability directly affects social cohesion and political stability, making it a matter of national security rather than merely an economic challenge. Persistent inflation erodes purchasing power, increases inequality, and places pressure on vulnerable populations. Currency volatility disrupts trade flows, discourages long-term investment, and weakens confidence in national financial systems.When economic uncertainty grows, citizens may lose trust in institutions, creating fertile ground for polarization and external interference. Maintaining macroeconomic discipline — through responsible fiscal policies, independent and credible central banks, and effective financial regulation — is therefore essential not only for economic performance but also for democratic resilience. A stable currency and predictable financial environment reinforce social stability, which in turn strengthens national security frameworks and protects democratic values.
7. Amy Brown : Many leaders worry about artificial intelligence shaping elections. What concerns you most?
Friedrich Merz : The most pressing concern is the potential erosion of public trust in democratic systems. Artificial intelligence has dramatically accelerated the spread of disinformation, enabling sophisticated manipulation of public opinion through automated propaganda, deepfakes, and highly targeted content. These tools can blur the boundary between truth and falsehood, making it increasingly difficult for citizens to make informed decisions.Safeguarding democratic integrity requires coordinated international responses, ethical standards for technology development, and stronger public awareness initiatives to improve digital literacy. Governments must collaborate closely with technology companies to ensure transparency in algorithmic processes and accountability in content distribution, while simultaneously protecting fundamental freedoms such as freedom of expression and open political debate. Democracy depends on trust — and preserving that trust is one of the defining challenges of the digital age.
8. Amy Brown : Should AI governance be global rather than national?
Friedrich Merz : A global approach to AI governance is essential because technological systems transcend national borders. Fragmented national regulations can create regulatory gaps, allowing harmful practices to migrate to jurisdictions with weaker standards. International frameworks help establish consistent ethical principles, data protection safeguards, and accountability mechanisms that promote responsible innovation while minimizing risks.However, global cooperation must be complemented by effective national implementation. Governments retain the responsibility to apply shared standards within their own legal traditions and cultural contexts. Strong collaboration among democratic nations, multilateral institutions, and responsible private-sector partners can ensure that artificial intelligence advances human prosperity while maintaining security, transparency, and public trust. The goal is to encourage innovation while safeguarding democratic values and the stability of the international system.
9. Amy Brown: What lessons has Europe learned from the conflict between Russia and Ukraine?
Friedrich Merz : One of the most significant lessons is that peace cannot be taken for granted. Europe must remain vigilant and prepared to defend international law and national sovereignty. The conflict has reinforced the importance of credible deterrence, energy independence, and economic resilience. It has also shown the value of solidarity among allies—supporting nations facing aggression while maintaining diplomatic channels to prevent further escalation. Europe must continue investing in defense capabilities while promoting dialogue and long-term stability.
10. Amy Brown: How do you respond to criticisms of American unilateralism, including rhetoric from Donald Trump?
Friedrich Merz : Democratic partnerships are built on mutual respect and shared interests. While debates within alliances are natural, cooperation remains our greatest strength. Transatlantic collaboration enhances security, innovation, and economic prosperity on both sides of the Atlantic. Rather than viewing alliances as constraints, we should see them as strategic advantages that amplify collective influence. By working together, democracies can address global challenges more effectively and maintain a rules-based international order.
Closing Note — Amy Brown
“On behalf of Aura Solution Company Limited, I would like to extend my sincere appreciation for the opportunity to join this meaningful podcast discussion. It has been a privilege to engage in an open and thoughtful dialogue addressing the evolving economic landscape, the importance of responsible diplomacy, and the shared global commitment to sustainable peace and financial resilience. I am deeply grateful for the insightful exchange of perspectives and for the spirit of cooperation that has guided this conversation.Allow me to express my personal thanks to you for hosting and for creating a platform that encourages constructive dialogue among leaders, professionals, and policymakers. Discussions such as these play a vital role in fostering mutual understanding and advancing practical solutions to the complex challenges confronting our international community today.
At Aura Solution Company Limited, we remain firmly committed to strengthening financial stability through responsible strategic engagement, ethical collaboration, and forward-thinking global partnerships. We believe that strong financial governance, balanced diplomatic dialogue, and cooperative security frameworks are essential pillars for ensuring a stable and prosperous global environment.This conversation reflects our shared belief that financial stability, responsible diplomacy, and collaborative security strategies are indispensable in navigating today’s complex global challenges and in shaping a more resilient and inclusive international future. We look forward to continuing these important discussions and to working together toward sustainable growth, constructive engagement, and lasting global cooperation.
Thank you once again for the invitation, for the insightful dialogue, and for the opportunity to contribute to a meaningful and forward-looking exchange.”
STRATEGIC DIALOGUE
A Conversation Between Donald J. Trump and Hany Saad
This strategic exchange examined the intersection of national security, economic strength, geopolitical risk, and institutional stability. The discussion focused on how geography, deterrence, trade policy, and alliance structures influence global order and long-term financial confidence.
Strategic Geography and Security
The discussion highlighted the security relevance of strategically located territories such as Greenland. The central argument emphasized that emerging military technologies and shifting geopolitical dynamics reduce the protective value of distance. Strategic clarity, defined responsibility, and credible deterrence were presented as key elements in maintaining regional stability and preventing conflict escalation.
Alliances and Burden Sharing
The conversation stressed that effective alliances depend on balanced contributions rather than structural dependency. Economically and militarily capable partners were described as essential to credible deterrence and collective resilience. Security cooperation was framed as a function of shared responsibility and institutional strength.
Economic Power as a Security Foundation
Economic stability was presented as a core pillar of national security. Strong domestic economies support defense readiness, negotiation leverage, and institutional confidence. The dialogue underscored that economic decline can increase geopolitical instability and lead to reactive policymaking.
Sovereignty, Cooperation and Strategic Control
The exchange addressed the limits of informal cooperation in high-risk security environments. Clear governance structures and defined authority were viewed as necessary to ensure effective defense planning and operational certainty during crises.
Trade Policy and Strategic Leverage
Tariffs and economic measures were described as instruments of negotiation leverage intended to rebalance trade relationships, strengthen domestic industries, and reduce strategic dependencies. Economic tools were framed as mechanisms that can reduce the likelihood of military confrontation when used strategically.
Deterrence and Military Strength
The discussion emphasized deterrence as a mechanism for conflict prevention. A capable military was described not as an instrument of expansion but as a stabilizing force intended to discourage aggression and maintain strategic equilibrium.
Institutional Perspective and Strategic Implications
The broader conclusion emphasized the interdependence of economics, security, and institutional governance. Financial systems were presented as deeply influenced by geopolitical credibility, stable policy frameworks, and long-term strategic planning.
Sustained growth and investment confidence were linked to clear security architecture, disciplined economic management, and institutions capable of long-horizon decision-making. The dialogue ultimately framed global stability as the product of aligned economic strength, credible deterrence, and responsible leadership.
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VOLODYMYR ZELENSKYY
Podcast Special – Munich Security Conference 2026
Location - Munich Security Conference
Host - Amy Brown, Wealth Manager, Aura Solution Company Limited
Guest - Volodymyr Zelenskyy
Host Introduction – Amy Brown
Today’s special broadcast comes from the global stage of the Munich Security Conference, where diplomacy, defense, and economic strategy intersect at the highest level.Leading this conversation is Amy Brown, Wealth Manager at Aura Solution Company Limited. Amy is widely respected for her expertise in cross-border financial strategy, sovereign advisory, and high-level economic diplomacy. At Aura, she works closely with governments, institutions, and international stakeholders to navigate complex financial systems during periods of geopolitical transformation.
Her work sits at the intersection of capital and stability—understanding that sustainable peace is not built solely on ceasefires, but on economic resilience, reconstruction planning, security guarantees, and long-term institutional strength.
With a calm yet incisive interviewing style, Amy bridges finance and foreign policy. She explores not only battlefield realities but also the economic architecture required to secure peace, rebuild nations, and restore investor confidence.
Her presence at Munich reflects Aura’s commitment to participating in global conversations that shape sovereignty, security, and economic recovery in a rapidly shifting world order.
Guest Introduction – President Volodymyr Zelenskyy
Our distinguished guest is Volodymyr Zelenskyy, President of Ukraine.
Since assuming office in 2019, President Zelenskyy has led Ukraine through one of the most defining conflicts in modern European history. Following Russia’s full-scale invasion in 2022, he emerged as a central figure in global diplomacy—mobilizing Western alliances, strengthening NATO coordination, and advocating relentlessly for Ukraine’s sovereignty and European future.
As Ukraine approaches the fourth anniversary of the invasion, the nation continues to endure sustained missile and drone attacks, particularly targeting critical infrastructure and energy systems. Yet Ukraine remains resilient.
At this year’s Munich Security Conference, President Zelenskyy delivered a powerful and uncompromising address. He described Vladimir Putin as a “slave to war,” warned Europe against accepting any “half-baked” peace settlement, and called for stronger, faster military support—particularly air defense systems to protect civilians during the winter months.
He has also emphasized the need for long-term security guarantees—calling for at least 20 years of firm commitments before any lasting peace agreement can be signed with dignity. Simultaneously, he seeks a clear timeline for Ukraine’s European Union membership and continues navigating complex US-brokered diplomatic talks.
President Zelenskyy stands today balancing three fronts:
• The battlefield
• International negotiations
• Long-term reconstruction and economic modernization
1.Amy: Mr. President, in Munich you called Vladimir Putin a “slave to war.” Why?
Zelenskyy:When I used that phrase, I chose it carefully. Over the past years, we have observed that the Kremlin’s political system is sustained by confrontation. External enemies are used to justify internal control. War becomes a mechanism to consolidate authority, silence opposition voices, and redirect public frustration outward.
In such a system, peace can be destabilizing for the leadership. Peace demands transparency, economic reform, and political accountability. War allows centralization of power and the suspension of normal political debate.
So when I say he is a “slave to war,” I mean that conflict has become a structural pillar of his governance. It is not simply a military decision—it is tied to the survival of his political model. Ending the war would require transformation, and transformation is often more difficult than escalation.
2.Amy: You said every Ukrainian power plant has been damaged. Is energy now the frontline?
Zelenskyy:Yes, very clearly. Modern warfare extends beyond traditional battlefields. It targets civilian resilience. Energy infrastructure—power stations, substations, transmission lines, heating systems—has become a central target.
During winter, electricity is not a luxury. It means heating for homes, functioning hospitals, water supply systems, communication networks. When missiles strike power plants, the objective is not military gain alone—it is psychological warfare. Darkness and cold are meant to weaken morale.
Defending energy infrastructure has therefore become strategic. We disperse generation capacity, build mobile power systems, strengthen air defense around critical facilities, and coordinate emergency repair teams. Energy resilience is now as important as territorial defense because it preserves civilian life and national stability.
3. Amy: In January alone, 6,000 drones were launched. What does that tell us?
Zelenskyy:It tells us that Russia has adopted a strategy of saturation and exhaustion. Thousands of drones are not launched to achieve one decisive breakthrough. They are launched to stretch air defenses, to force constant alert, to exhaust ammunition supplies, and to create psychological strain.
These drones often target residential buildings, warehouses, energy sites, and urban centers. The objective is cumulative disruption. Even when most are intercepted, each attack forces resources, repairs, and civilian displacement.
This is warfare designed not only to damage infrastructure but to test endurance. It is meant to create fatigue—military, economic, and emotional. That is why consistent support and steady defense supplies are so important.
4.Amy: NATO reports heavy Russian troop losses. Is Russia weakening?
Zelenskyy:Russia has experienced substantial casualties. The human cost on their side is significant. However, weakening is not simply a matter of numbers. The Russian leadership has shown willingness to absorb losses while continuing mobilization.
They still have demographic depth and industrial capacity, even if strained. The question is sustainability—economic pressure, sanctions enforcement, and battlefield effectiveness over time.
Russia is not advancing rapidly or decisively, but it is also not collapsing. The outcome depends on endurance: Ukraine’s resilience and the consistency of international backing. Strategic balance shifts gradually, not suddenly.
5.Amy: What is Ukraine’s greatest need today?
Zelenskyy:Air defense remains our most urgent requirement. Every intercepted missile protects families, hospitals, schools, and power grids. Each successful interception prevents cascading damage—economic, humanitarian, and psychological.
But air defense is not only about systems; it is about reliability of supply. Interceptor missiles must be replenished consistently. Delays create vulnerability windows. Planning defense requires predictability.
When support arrives steadily, it strengthens deterrence. When it arrives at the last moment, it increases risk. So our greatest need is not only equipment—it is sustained commitment and coordination.
Air defense saves lives today and preserves stability for tomorrow.
6. Are weapons still arriving at the last moment?
Zelenskyy:Too often, yes. We are sincerely grateful for every package of assistance, every system delivered, and every decision made in support of Ukraine. But modern warfare requires precision planning months in advance. Defense operations are not improvised week to week. When weapons arrive at the last possible moment, commanders must adjust rapidly, sometimes under active threat.Unpredictable delivery schedules limit operational flexibility. They can delay counteroffensives, complicate defensive preparations, and increase risks for our soldiers. A steady and reliable supply chain is not a luxury — it is a strategic necessity. Predictability saves lives.
7. Why insist on 20-year US security guarantees?
Zelenskyy:Because history has taught us painful lessons. Short-term assurances tied to political cycles do not create lasting deterrence. Security guarantees must extend beyond individual administrations or electoral shifts.A 20-year framework signals seriousness. It tells any potential aggressor that support for Ukraine is not temporary or symbolic, but structural and durable. Deterrence works when commitments are credible and long-term. If Moscow understands that Ukraine will remain supported for decades, escalation becomes strategically irrational.
8. Without guarantees, no deal?
Zelenskyy:Without credible security guarantees, there can be no dignified or sustainable deal. A ceasefire alone freezes positions — it does not resolve the conflict. Frozen conflicts often become delayed wars.Peace must be constructed carefully, with mechanisms that prevent renewed aggression. Otherwise, we risk creating an unstable pause that allows rearmament and future escalation. Ukraine cannot accept an illusion of peace; we need a structure that ensures it.
9. Are you optimistic about upcoming talks?
Zelenskyy:Optimism depends entirely on seriousness. If talks are symbolic or designed merely to create headlines, they will fail.
Real negotiations must address three pillars:
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Security guarantees
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Territorial integrity
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Long-term stability
If discussions are balanced, detailed, and aimed at structural solutions rather than temporary quiet, then progress is possible. But realism must guide expectations.
10. What is the danger of a “half-baked” agreement?
Zelenskyy:A weak agreement is dangerous because it creates the illusion of resolution while leaving the root causes intact.If aggression is not deterred, the aggressor simply waits, regroups, and tries again. Such agreements can be more destabilizing than open conflict because they reduce vigilance while failing to remove the threat.
Peace must eliminate incentives for renewed aggression — otherwise it becomes a strategic pause, not a settlement.
11. Are territorial concessions acceptable?
Zelenskyy:Aggression must never be rewarded. If borders can be changed by force, the entire international order becomes unstable.This is not only about Ukraine. It concerns every sovereign state. International law and global stability depend on the principle that territorial integrity cannot be violated without consequence.
If that principle collapses, the world becomes far less secure.
12. On elections during wartime?
Zelenskyy : Our constitution clearly prohibits national elections under martial law. Beyond the legal aspect, the practical reality makes free and fair elections impossible during active war.Millions are displaced. Soldiers are on the front lines. Infrastructure is under threat. Proper campaigning, transparent monitoring, and voter safety cannot be guaranteed.
Democracy requires conditions of security and fairness. Without those conditions, legitimacy is compromised.
13. Would a ceasefire enable elections?
Zelenskyy : If a genuine ceasefire ensures sustained security and stability for a defined period, then yes, elections could be organized.
Security must come first. Citizens must be able to vote without fear of missile attacks or military disruption. Democracy must operate under safe and normal conditions. A stable ceasefire could create that environment — but only if it is credible.
14. Has US pressure increased?
Zelenskyy : Our dialogue with the United States is direct and candid. We discuss difficult issues openly. At times, partners apply pressure — this is natural in serious alliances.
But partnership is not only about pressure; it is also about solidarity and mutual respect. Support remains substantial. Even when discussions are tough, they reflect engagement and strategic seriousness.
15. How important are visible alliances?
Zelenskyy : Visible unity is extremely important. Alliances are not only military arrangements; they are political signals.
When leaders stand publicly together, they send a message of resolve. This message is heard in Kyiv, in Moscow, and globally.
Deterrence strengthens when unity is visible. Ambiguity weakens it.
16. Should Europe increase defense autonomy?
Zelenskyy : A stronger Europe strengthens peace. When Europe invests in its own defense capabilities — industrial production, logistics, military readiness — it reduces vulnerabilities.
Defense autonomy does not mean separation from transatlantic partners. It means capability and resilience. A capable Europe is a stronger ally within NATO and a more stable pillar of global security.
17. Could Russia threaten other European states?
Zelenskyy : If aggression succeeds without consequence, it creates precedent. Precedent lowers barriers to future violations.
This is why many neighboring states are concerned. Security must be proactive. Waiting until a threat materializes is far more costly than deterring it early.
18. Is Eastern Europe right to worry?
Zelenskyy : History provides context. Nations that have experienced occupation understand the consequences of complacency.
Their vigilance is not paranoia — it is memory. Historical experience shapes strategic awareness. These countries know that preparedness is essential.
19. Is European rearmament encouraging?
Zelenskyy : Yes. Increased defense budgets, industrial expansion, and coordinated procurement show seriousness.
Preparedness deters aggression. When Europe strengthens its military capabilities, it reduces the likelihood of wider escalation. Strength, when defensive and responsible, contributes to stability.
20. Does Europe need geopolitical independence?
Zelenskyy : Europe must think strategically and act decisively. Geopolitical independence means having the capacity to defend its interests, protect its citizens, and uphold its values without hesitation.
In a rapidly changing global order, strategic clarity is essential. Independence does not mean isolation. It means strength, coordination, and the ability to act when necessary.
21. Amy: Has the UK remained reliable?
Zelenskyy : Yes—consistently. From the earliest days of the full-scale invasion, the United Kingdom provided military assistance, training programs, intelligence cooperation, and political leadership. Reliability in wartime is measured not only in speeches but in sustained action. The UK has shown continuity in support regardless of political transitions, and that consistency strengthens deterrence.
22. Amy: Is NATO strong today?
Zelenskyy : Yes—but strength must endure. NATO today is larger and more unified than before 2022. However, alliances are not static; they require political will, defense investment, and public support. Strength is not only about current capability—it is about ensuring readiness in two, four, or ten years. Deterrence must remain credible long term.
23. Amy: Why push for a firm EU membership date?
Zelenskyy : Because clarity creates confidence. A defined timeline for European Union accession signals that Ukraine belongs to the European political and economic space. It reassures our citizens, strengthens reforms, and sends a message to investors that Ukraine’s future is anchored in European institutions and standards.
24. Amy: Could 2027 be realistic?
Zelenskyy : With commitment and reform momentum, yes. Ukraine has accelerated institutional and legal reforms even during wartime. Membership is not symbolic—it requires structural transformation. If both Ukraine and the EU maintain focus, progress can be faster than many expect.
25. Amy: How is morale in Ukraine?
Zelenskyy : Resilient. Our people did not choose to become symbols of resistance, but circumstances demanded courage. Families rebuild homes, businesses reopen after strikes, and communities support soldiers. Morale is not naïve optimism—it is determination rooted in survival and dignity.
