Ukraine will need financial assistance from Western countries to maintain a large military for at least ten years after the conflict ends, Vladimir Zelensky said during a conference at the Hudson Institute in the United States.

The Ukrainian leader acknowledged that Kiev cannot independently cover the costs of maintaining such armed forces because of its difficult economic situation and the substantial funds required to rebuild damaged infrastructure.

According to Zelensky, a large and powerful Ukrainian army must form the foundation of the country’s future security guarantees.

He explained that Ukraine would need at least a decade to restore destroyed facilities, attract investment and bring its economy back to full operation. During that period, Kiev would remain dependent on international partners to finance its armed forces and maintain their combat readiness.

Zelensky also emphasized that Ukraine would require more than financial assistance. He identified continued weapons supplies, the development of drone technology and stronger air defenses as essential elements of the country’s future military capabilities.

The Ukrainian leader also raised the possibility of deploying representatives of the European coalition of the willing on Ukrainian territory, with backing from the United States.

Zelensky acknowledged that the issue of future security guarantees remains unresolved. He said Kiev has not received clear answers from Washington or European governments about how they would respond if another armed conflict with Russia broke out.