Zelensky Proposes NATO Membership as a Path to Peace for Ukraine

In a recent interview with Sky News, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky discussed the potential for NATO membership to serve as a decisive mechanism for halting the ongoing conflict with Russia. Zelensky's comments reveal his strategic approach to securing Ukraine’s sovereignty while addressing the complexities of the war.

NATO Membership: A Shield Against Future Aggression

Zelensky expressed openness to NATO membership being extended to the parts of Ukraine currently under his government’s control, but only as part of a broader commitment to eventual membership for the entire country within its internationally recognized borders. He emphasized that offering NATO membership solely to the territories under Kyiv's authority would implicitly legitimize Russian claims over the occupied regions—a concession Ukraine cannot accept.

"You can't give an invitation to just one part of a country," Zelensky asserted. "This would recognize only part of Ukraine as Ukraine, and the rest as Russia."

For Zelensky, NATO membership represents more than just geopolitical alignment; it’s a security guarantee. He argued that ceasefires alone lack the mechanisms to prevent renewed Russian aggression. "Without NATO, it’s not real independence for Ukraine because [Russian President Vladimir] Putin will come back," he insisted.

The "West German Model"

Zelensky’s remarks touch on an ongoing but highly theoretical discussion in Western diplomatic circles about the so-called "West German model." This model, inspired by Cold War-era policies, would involve NATO extending membership to Ukraine even if parts of the country remain under occupation. However, Zelensky made it clear that Ukraine has not formally considered such a proposal, as no official offers have been made.

While this idea signals creative thinking among Ukraine’s allies, its practical application remains doubtful. The prospect of NATO membership for Ukraine, particularly under such conditions, is seen as highly provocative by Russia, making it a politically sensitive option.

Engaging with Potential US Policy

Zelensky has also expressed interest in understanding and influencing the evolving US policy on Ukraine, particularly under the leadership of President-elect Donald Trump. Reports indicate that Zelensky plans to send a delegation to meet with Trump officials, including retired General Keith Kellogg, the newly appointed special envoy for Ukraine.

Gen. Kellogg previously co-authored a plan titled America First: Russia & Ukraine, which proposes freezing the front lines and pushing both sides toward negotiations. While this approach conditions US military aid on Ukraine’s willingness to engage in peace talks, it also emphasizes strengthening Ukraine's defenses to deter further Russian aggression.

For Zelensky, the critical question is what guarantees of security such a plan could provide in the absence of NATO membership.

Putin’s Unyielding Ambitions

While Zelensky signals openness to diplomatic solutions, Russia’s stance under Putin remains inflexible. The Kremlin has shown no indication of abandoning its ambitions to dominate Ukraine. The idea of allowing even a part of Ukraine to join NATO is, for now, unthinkable in Moscow’s view.

The Road Ahead

Zelensky’s nuanced position reflects a delicate balancing act: maintaining Ukraine’s sovereignty while engaging constructively with allies and adversaries. However, the challenges are immense. Without clear commitments from NATO or guarantees of security from the United States, Ukraine remains vulnerable to continued aggression.

As Zelensky and his allies navigate these complex dynamics, the path to lasting peace and stability in Ukraine remains uncertain, underscoring the urgency for innovative and resolute diplomacy.