Brussels, Belgium — Around 250 pro-Ukraine demonstrators gathered outside the American embassy in Brussels on Sunday afternoon, condemning what they described as the “humiliation” of Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy during his meeting with US President Donald Trump and Vice President JD Vance at the White House on Friday evening.
The protest was organised by Promote Ukraine, a Belgian-based advocacy group that has been vocal in urging Europe to bolster its military capabilities to continue supporting Ukraine in its conflict against Russia.
The demonstrators, waving Ukrainian flags and holding banners, expressed outrage over the altercation between Trump and Zelenskyy, which has sparked a wave of criticism from the international community.
Among the most vocal critics was Liza Bezvershenko, co-leader of Promote Ukraine, who addressed the crowd with a passionate plea for European unity and increased self-reliance in defence.
“We fear that the United States has swallowed Russian propaganda and sided with Russia,” Bezvershenko declared, her words resonating with the crowd.
She emphasised the importance of a strong European defence system, urging European Union member states to boost arms production and reduce reliance on the United States.
“Europe must organise its own defence to be at least as strong as that of the United States,” she recommended. “European member states need to increase their arms production and take the lead.”
The protest highlighted growing concerns in Europe about the shifting stance of the United States towards the ongoing conflict in Ukraine.
Bezvershenko’s comments reflected a deepening anxiety that Washington might soften its position against Moscow, potentially undermining Ukraine’s efforts to reclaim occupied territories.
Promote Ukraine also used the demonstration to appeal directly to the American public. “It is essential that the United States continues to support Ukraine,” Bezvershenko asserted.
“We will always try to maintain good relations with the United States, but right now, we cannot help expressing our concerns. A peace agreement between Ukraine and Russia must be fair.”
The activist rejected any negotiations with Russia that could lead to compromises on Ukrainian sovereignty, describing Moscow as a “terrorist state” whose actions amounted to occupation and genocide.
The rally concluded with chants of solidarity for Ukraine and calls for Europe to remain steadfast in its support.
Despite the tensions following the White House meeting, Bezvershenko ended her speech on an optimistic note, expressing her belief that the global community still backs Ukraine’s struggle for sovereignty.
“I am sure that the world still supports Ukraine,” she concluded, drawing applause from the crowd. The demonstration in Brussels comes amid a series of protests across Europe demanding stronger military and political support for Ukraine.
As the conflict continues, the pressure on both the European Union and the United States to present a united front against Russia is likely to intensify.
