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Zelenskyy: Ukraine’s Survival Hinges on Continued U.S. Support
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has underscored the critical importance of sustained U.S. assistance in Ukraine’s defense against the ongoing Russian invasion. In an interview with NBC’s “Meet the Press,” Zelenskyy stated that without continued U.S. support, Ukraine’s chances of survival would be significantly diminished.
U.S. Position on NATO Membership
At the Munich Security Conference, U.S. officials addressed Ukraine’s aspirations to join NATO. Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth indicated that Washington does not support Ukraine’s bid for NATO membership as part of a peace agreement. He also described a return to Ukraine’s pre-2014 borders, prior to Russia’s annexation of Crimea, as “unrealistic.”
Discussions on Security Guarantees
During the conference, President Zelenskyy engaged in discussions with U.S. Vice President JD Vance, Secretary of State Marco Rubio, and Special Envoy for Ukraine, General Keith Kellogg. The Ukrainian leader emphasized the necessity for “security guarantees” to ensure Ukraine’s sovereignty and territorial integrity. While Vice President Vance reiterated the administration’s desire for a negotiated settlement, he did not provide specific details. He stated, “Fundamentally the goal is, as President Trump outlined it, we want the war to come to a close, we want the killing to stop. But we want to achieve a durable, lasting peace.”
Potential Direct Negotiations with Russia
President Zelenskyy expressed willingness to engage in direct talks with Russian President Vladimir Putin, contingent upon the establishment of a common plan negotiated with President Trump. He confirmed that President Trump had provided him with a direct phone number ahead of the Munich conference, facilitating direct communication between the two leaders.
Chernobyl Incident Overshadows Conference
The Munich discussions were overshadowed by an explosion at the Chernobyl Nuclear Power Plant, which Ukrainian authorities attributed to a Russian drone strike. The Kremlin has denied any involvement in the incident. The International Atomic Energy Agency reported that radiation levels remained within normal ranges, despite the explosion.
European Allies’ Concerns
President Trump’s approach to the Ukraine conflict has elicited uncertainty among European allies. He has suggested the possibility of exchanging U.S. aid for access to Ukraine’s rare earth minerals and has downplayed the likelihood of Ukraine joining NATO. Trump remarked, “I don’t see any way that a country in Russia’s position could allow … them to join NATO.”
As the situation continues to evolve, Ukraine’s leadership remains focused on securing international support and exploring diplomatic avenues to achieve a sustainable resolution to the conflict.
