Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskiy said on Sunday that Ukraine is prepared to abandon its aspirations for NATO membership, describing the decision as a compromise.
Zelenski on Ukraine’s NATO Membership
Since the beginning, Ukraine has sought NATO membership, which it views as genuine security guarantees. Some partners in the United States and Europe, however, have not supported this direction, said Zelenskiy.
In order to prevent another Russian invasion, Zelenskiy highlighted the need for bilateral security guarantees between Ukraine and the United States, including an Article 5‑type guarantee for Ukraine, as well as guarantees from European allies and other nations such as Canada and Japan. He said these are the compromises that Ukraine is willing to adopt.
War in Ukraine. Talks in Berlin
On Sunday, Zelenskiy engaged in talks with American officials about a peace plan that will also involve leaders of Germany, France and the United Kingdom. The discussions are expected to continue on Monday.
He stressed that the peace plan will require compromises and that any steps agreed upon with partners must work in practice, ensuring reliable security guarantees that can bring peace. He also expressed hope for constructive cooperation from partners.
Putin: Russia Has Always Opposed Ukraine Joining NATO
Russian President Vladimir Putin reiterated that Russia has consistently opposed Ukraine’s accession to NATO. He argued that while every country has the right to choose its own security system, the security of one side cannot be built at the expense of another.
Putin added that Ukraine has the right to conduct business and pursue membership in the European Union, and that Russia does not doubt Ukraine’s right to do so.
