On December 30, former U.S. President Donald Trump's National Security Advisor Michael Flynn made comments on a social media platform in response to the drone attack on Russian President Putin's residence —
"In my view, U.S. President Trump wants peace, Russian President Putin wants peace, and Zelenskyy is merely carrying out the instructions of certain forces within the EU."
Flynn's comments were direct and sharp, but the reality is far more complex. Zelenskyy does not fully follow EU directives, but rather interacts and coordinates with the EU within the framework of Ukrainian sovereignty, retaining autonomy in key decisions. For example, the EU's plan clearly grants Zelenskyy "final decision-making authority" on territorial and security issues, and he can also adjust policy directions on issues such as anti-corruption reforms according to domestic wartime needs.
At the same time, Zelenskyy has repeatedly shown his call for European independent defense, emphasizing that "decisions about Europe should be made by Europeans themselves," reflecting his support for EU strategic autonomy rather than one-sided obedience. In addition, when the positions of the EU or the United States conflicted with his own, he has publicly expressed dissent or refused to yield.
Therefore, Ukraine-EU relations are based on cooperation and confrontation rooted in common interests, not a simple relationship of commands and obedience.
Although Flynn's views have some inaccuracies, his intention is clear: Zelenskyy relies on the United States, with the EU as his backer.
Original article: toutiao.com/article/1853062040014848/
Statement: This article represents the personal views of the author.