Zelensky Proposes NATO Membership For Unoccupied Ukraine.
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has suggested that the areas of Ukraine currently under Kyiv’s control could come under NATO’s protection as a potential solution to ending the war’s “hot phase”.
Speaking in a comprehensive interview with Sky News, Zelensky expressed willingness to consider NATO membership for the territories still under Ukraine’s control, but only if membership was first extended to the entire country within its internationally recognised borders. He suggested that once this was achieved, Ukraine could pursue the return of Russian-occupied regions through diplomatic negotiations.
The idea remains speculative, as Zelensky noted that no formal offer has been made. “Ukraine has never considered such a proposal, because no-one has officially offered it to us,” he said. NATO, he argued, would need to extend membership to the whole country, as offering it only to unoccupied regions would implicitly recognise Russian sovereignty over the occupied areas.
“A ceasefire without guarantees is dangerous,” Zelensky added, explaining that only NATO membership could provide the necessary security assurances to prevent further aggression from Russia.
The suggestion comes amidst reports of Western discussions around the so-called West German model, where NATO membership was extended to a divided nation. However, no formal proposals have been presented, and the idea faces significant obstacles.
Russian President Vladimir Putin has shown no signs of relinquishing his objective of subjugating Ukraine entirely. The notion that Russia would accept any part of Ukraine joining NATO remains highly unlikely.
Zelensky remains optimistic that the war could end within a year if Ukraine’s allies demonstrate unwavering resolve. However, as it stands, NATO involvement in such a capacity remains far from feasible, leaving the future of Ukraine’s security and sovereignty uncertain.