Joanna Kakissis

Zelensky made these comments right after meeting President Trump as Ukraine continues to work on a peace plan with the Americans.

Well, Zelensky does see the fate of Ukraine tied to that of Europe, though he is frustrated that Europe does not do more to stop Russia's war machine.

And Ukrainians have worked for many years to break away from post-Soviet influence and embrace the democratic ideals of the European Union and the NATO Security Alliance.

However, Zelensky suggested that the unity of NATO itself is fragile.

What would happen, he said, if Russia attacked a NATO ally?

He said Europe must learn how to defend itself.

And because Ukraine has been defending itself for years, it can help, he said.

So last year, Zelensky pushed for the formation of a united European armed force.

with Ukraine included, of course, that could be up to 3 million troops.

And he lamented nothing had been done since he brought it up, but he said it's still not too late and described one way Europe might benefit.

And now he's talking about how Ukraine, though, it has this tiny Navy-used sea drones to basically block Russia ships from using the Black Sea.

Zelensky said Ukraine needs Europe's help today to keep its independence, but that tomorrow Europe will have to protect its own way of life.

And Zelensky told Europeans, with Ukraine at your side, no one will wipe their feet on you.

You're welcome.

Thanks for having me on the show, Scott.

It's cold and the sun is shining today and that does make things a little better, but it's still 13 degrees Fahrenheit out.

We're lucky at the Bureau because we have this backup battery for electricity.

However, the heating is out for long periods, so it's really cold in our house and I am wearing my coat right now.

And outside, businesses are using generators to keep operating.

But many homes are cold and dark.