Ukraine Signals Shift on NATO Membership
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has said Ukraine could consider dropping its bid to join NATO if it receives strong and credible international security guarantees to protect the country from future Russian aggression. The proposal marks a notable shift in Kyiv’s long-held position as efforts continue to explore possible pathways to end the war.
Zelenskyy stressed that any alternative to NATO membership must provide protection comparable to the alliance’s collective defence framework. He said Ukraine needs binding guarantees from key Western partners to ensure long-term security and prevent renewed conflict.
Firm Stand on Territorial Integrity
While signalling flexibility on NATO membership, Zelenskyy firmly rejected any suggestion that Ukraine should give up territory as part of a peace settlement. He said Ukraine would not agree to cede land occupied by Russian forces, underlining that territorial integrity remains a non-negotiable principle.
According to officials, discussions with Western partners have included various proposals aimed at freezing the conflict or establishing security arrangements, but Kyiv has made it clear that compromises on sovereignty are unacceptable.
Diplomatic Efforts Continue
The comments come amid intensified diplomatic engagement involving the United States and European allies, as they assess options to support Ukraine while exploring potential conditions for negotiations with Russia. Zelenskyy said talks are ongoing and emphasised that any agreement must be fair, durable and backed by enforceable commitments.
Ukraine has repeatedly said that peace without credible security guarantees would only invite future aggression, a position it continues to convey to its international partners.
