News EditorUkrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has proposed a bold strategy to curb the ongoing war, suggesting NATO membership for parts of Ukraine currently under his government’s control. Speaking in an interview with Sky News, Zelensky emphasized that such a move would only be acceptable if NATO extends membership to the entirety of Ukraine within its internationally recognized borders.
This approach, he argued, could create a framework for negotiating the return of territories under Russian occupation “in a diplomatic way.” However, Zelensky acknowledged that this idea remains hypothetical and no official proposals of this nature have been made.
“You can’t give an invitation to just one part of a country,” Zelensky stated. Doing so, he said, would imply recognition of Russian claims over the rest of Ukraine. He underscored that only NATO membership could provide the necessary security guarantees to prevent further aggression from Russia.
Uncertainty Surrounding NATO Membership
Zelensky’s comments reflect growing international debate over Ukraine’s future security arrangements. Discussions of a “West German model”—granting NATO membership to part of a divided country—have reportedly circulated in Western policy circles for over a year. Yet, no formal proposals have surfaced.
The Ukrainian leader also addressed reports of evolving U.S. policy under President-elect Donald Trump, emphasizing his openness to dialogue. Zelensky plans to send a delegation to meet with Trump’s team, including retired General Keith Kellogg, who has proposed a peace framework to freeze current frontlines while encouraging negotiations.
Under Kellogg’s plan, future U.S. military aid to Ukraine would be contingent on Kyiv’s participation in peace talks. A ceasefire, however, would not halt U.S. support for strengthening Ukraine’s defenses.
Security Guarantees and Diplomatic Challenges
For Zelensky, NATO membership remains non-negotiable for ensuring Ukraine’s sovereignty. “Without NATO, it’s not real independence for Ukraine because [Russian President Vladimir] Putin will come back,” he said.
The Ukrainian president’s vision contrasts sharply with Moscow’s position. Since annexing Crimea in 2014 and launching a full-scale invasion in 2022, Russia has shown no signs of relenting in its aim to dominate Ukraine.
Zelensky’s diplomatic overtures underline a willingness to explore peace options, but the likelihood of NATO involvement or significant concessions from Russia remains remote. As the war grinds on, both sides appear far from a resolution, leaving the international community to grapple with the question of Ukraine’s long-term security and independence.
