Volodymyr Zelenskyy on NATO
Volodymyr Zelenskyy views NATO membership as a fundamental strategic goal for Ukraine, essential for guaranteeing the nation's security and sovereignty against Russian threats. This aspiration is deeply embedded in his administration's policy, with constitutional amendments made to reflect the aim of achieving "fully-fledged membership" in the alliance. He has consistently pushed for an accelerated path, especially following Russia's full-scale invasion in 2022.
His position has shown flexibility regarding the timeline and prerequisites for joining, often prioritizing immediate security assurances and peace over a purely linear accession process. During periods of high conflict and international negotiations, Zelenskyy has signaled openness to alternative security agreements from Western partners as an immediate step, while still insisting that NATO is the ultimate destination for Ukraine.
Most recently, Volodymyr Zelenskyy indicated a willingness to make significant political sacrifices, such as potentially giving up the presidency, in exchange for securing peace under the NATO security umbrella. This demonstrates the depth of his commitment, viewing alliance membership as inextricably linked to Ukraine's long-term survival and territorial integrity.
Context
Volodymyr Zelenskyy's position on NATO is central to his foreign policy and national security doctrine, particularly given Russia's ongoing military aggression against Ukraine since 2014. As President, he is the key figure defining Ukraine's path toward Euro-Atlantic integration.
His advocacy for NATO membership is framed as a direct countermeasure to Russian imperialism, seeking the collective defense guarantee provided by Article 5, which Ukraine lacks following its denuclearization in the 1990s. His continuous efforts to engage with NATO allies are crucial for securing the military and political support necessary for Ukraine's defense.
Timeline
- During his presidential campaign, Zelenskyy stated support for Ukraine joining both the EU and NATO, suggesting that voters should decide on both in referendums.
- President Zelenskyy approved Ukraine's new National Security Strategy, which explicitly provided for developing a distinctive partnership with NATO with the ultimate aim of membership in the alliance.
- In response to the Russian military buildup, Zelenskyy urged NATO members to speed up Ukraine's request for membership.
- Immediately following Russia's full-scale invasion, Zelenskyy formally requested an "accelerated accession" to join NATO.
- As an alternative to immediate NATO membership amid Russian demands, Zelenskyy proposed a new collective security agreement involving the US, Turkey, France, and Germany.
- Zelenskyy signaled a potential compromise, suggesting that an offer of NATO membership covering only the currently controlled territory could halt the 'hot stage' of the war, though he maintained that legally Ukraine could not recognize occupied land as Russian.
- Zelenskyy stated he would be ready to give up the presidency if it achieved a lasting peace under the NATO security umbrella.
Actions Taken
- Policy Document ApprovalApproved Ukraine's new National Security Strategy, which formally included the development of a partnership with NATO with the aim of membership.
- Diplomatic AppealUrged NATO members to speed up Ukraine's membership request following the Russian military buildup on the border.
- Formal Membership RequestFormally requested an "accelerated accession" to join NATO shortly after Russia launched its full-scale invasion.
- High Level DiplomacyMet with NATO officials in Brussels on his first official trip abroad as President.
Key Quotes
"I can trade it for NATO."
"If we want to stop the hot stage of the war, we should take under the NATO umbrella the territory of Ukraine that we have under our control. That's what we need to do, fast."
"Ukraine needed a NATO MAP, as NATO membership would contribute to Ukraine's security and defense."
Sources7
Ukraine's Zelenskyy says he would give up presidency in exchange for peace and NATO membership
* This is not an exhaustive list of sources.