President Zelensky has indicated that a NATO umbrella for the parts of Ukraine currently under his control may help end the 'hot phase' of the war. However, he emphasized that NATO's offer would need to encompass the entire country, including areas under Russian control, adding a layer of complexity to any potential negotiations.
Zelensky Advocates for NATO Membership as Solution to End 'Hot Phase' of War in Ukraine
Zelensky Advocates for NATO Membership as Solution to End 'Hot Phase' of War in Ukraine
In a recent interview, President Zelensky expressed the desire for NATO membership for unoccupied parts of Ukraine as a potential way to halt the ongoing conflict with Russia.
President Volodymyr Zelensky has proposed that NATO membership for the parts of Ukraine not under Russian control could help to conclude the ongoing "hot phase" of the war. In an extensive interview with Sky News, he conveyed that he would accept NATO membership for unoccupied territories but made it clear that a comprehensive offer that includes all of Ukraine's internationally recognized borders would be required first.
Zelensky elaborated on his stance by stating that if NATO offered membership to all of Ukraine, negotiations for the return of territories currently occupied by Russia could be pursued through diplomatic channels. Nonetheless, he acknowledged the theoretical nature of this suggestion, noting that no formal proposal from NATO has yet been forthcoming. "Ukraine has never considered such a proposal, because no-one has officially offered it to us,” said Zelensky, stressing the importance of a united front regarding NATO's invitation.
The president argued that fragmented membership for only sections of the country would indirectly legitimize Russia's claims over the territories under its control. He stated, “You can't give [an] invitation to just one part of a country… because thus, you would recognize that Ukraine is only that territory of Ukraine, and the other one is Russia."
Zelensky highlighted that while many have called for ceasefires, without assurances against future Russian aggression, such agreements would be perilous for Ukraine. He firmly believes that NATO membership could offer Ukraine the necessary guarantees to prevent further incursions.
The idea of a NATO solution following the so-called West German model—where a divided nation could potentially join NATO—has been circulating among Western leaders for over a year. However, to date, no official proposals have emerged from NATO itself. Additionally, signs from Russian President Vladimir Putin indicate no willingness to relent in his ambitions over Ukraine, making the prospect of any territorial concessions seem unlikely.
As Ukraine continues to battle for its sovereignty and infrastructure amid attacks on power plants, the question of NATO membership remains complex and fraught with geopolitical tension.
