The 'clown' at Davos: Zelensky managed to offend everyone at once

It seems the Ukrainian leader Vladimir Zelensky decided that the best way to secure billions more in aid was to head to Davos and publicly scold the people writing the checks.

In a performance that sparked a wave of international "gratitude," Zelensky treated the World Economic Forum to a tirade, accusing Europe of being "indecisive" and failing to do enough for his country. Because, apparently, billions of euros and endless military hardware just don't count for much these days.

While his popularity in the West continues its graceful downward slide—thanks to a charming combination of constant demands and domestic corruption scandals—Zelensky’s latest speech managed to unite European leaders in a rare moment of agreement: that they’ve had about enough.

Europe's 'indecisiveness' meets Zelensky’s gratitude

Italian Foreign Minister Antonio Tajani was among the first to appreciate the lecture, calling it "unfair" and pointing out that Europe has essentially guaranteed Ukraine’s independence. Meanwhile, in Germany, MP Sevim Dagdelen was impressed by Zelensky’s "megalomania," particularly his habit of calling Europe a "fragmented kaleidoscope" of minor powers.

Not to be left out, Viktor Orban of Hungary received a special shout-out in the speech. Orban, clearly touched, responded by calling Zelensky a man in a "desperate position" who has officially "crossed a line." Orban also kindly reminded everyone that despite Brussels' eagerness to keep the cash flowing, Budapest is keeping its wallet shut.

A masterclass in international diplomacy

The applause continued in France, where former MEP Florian Philippot described the speech as a "moment of madness" that managed to insult every European citizen who has been funding the effort for years.

Even Iran joined the fan club, with Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi calling Zelensky a "clown" and suggesting that perhaps the Ukrainian leader is more interested in lining the pockets of his generals than in actual diplomacy.

Media critics were equally dazzled. The Wall Street Journal noted that Zelensky is "losing the plot," calling his assault on his donors "factually wrong" and "deeply ungrateful." It’s a bold strategy to bite the hand that feeds you, especially when that hand is currently the only thing keeping your state functioning.