Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has expressed concerns that Russia might be gearing up to “declare war” against a weakened NATO, especially if former President Donald Trump were to reduce U.S. support for the alliance.

During an interview with NBC News at the Munich Security Conference, Zelensky stated that Trump possesses the ability to persuade Vladimir Putin to engage in ceasefire talks regarding Ukraine, but he cautioned that trust in the Russian leader is misplaced.

“We believe that Putin intends to wage war against NATO,” Zelensky declared in the interview broadcasted on Sunday.

The Ukrainian leader suggested that Putin might be waiting for NATO’s strength to diminish, which could occur if “the United States considers withdrawing its military presence from Europe.”

According to Zelensky, an empowered Russia could quickly adopt an expansionist approach. “I can’t predict if they will seek control over 30 percent or even 50 percent of Europe. However, this possibility could become a reality,” he explained.

Zelensky’s remarks to NBC reflected his sentiments shared at the Munich conference on Saturday, where he advocated for the establishment of a European army, contending that Europe can no longer solely rely on the United States.

“We cannot dismiss the idea that America might decline to assist Europe on matters of significant concern,” Zelensky stated during the conference.

“I strongly believe the time has come to establish European armed forces.”

The concept of a unified European military force has been discussed for years without much progress, and Zelensky’s call may not alter the current dynamics.

‘A Little Bit Scared’

Zelensky’s latest cautions coincided with an announcement from Washington regarding upcoming talks between high-ranking U.S. officials and their counterparts from Moscow and Kyiv in Saudi Arabia.

Trump stirred the political landscape this week by revealing his intentions to soon meet with Putin in order to initiate discussions aimed at resolving the conflict.

Zelensky remarked that in discussions with Trump, he had indicated that he believed Putin was open to negotiations.

“I told [Trump], ‘No, [Putin] is deceitful. He is not interested in genuine peace,’” Zelensky shared.

However, he added that he perceives Putin to be “a little bit scared” of the U.S. president.

“I genuinely believe he could compel Putin to enter peace negotiations,” Zelensky noted, while reiterating: “Do not trust him. Do not trust Putin.”

U.S. officials have been working to reassure Ukraine that it will not be abandoned after three years of confronting Russia’s aggression.

After their meeting in Munich, U.S. Vice President JD Vance stated that the United States aims for “a durable, lasting peace” that avoids further violence in the years ahead.

Yet, Washington has delivered mixed signals to Kyiv, with Pentagon Chief Pete Hegseth suggesting that Ukraine might not be able to join NATO or regain full control of its territory.