Zelensky Urges Inclusive NATO Membership for Ukraine Amid Ongoing Conflict

Ukrainian President Zelensky has called for NATO membership offers to include all regions under Ukraine’s control, arguing that partial inclusion would imply recognizing Russian claims over occupied territories. He stated that legally, Ukraine cannot acknowledge these territories as part of Russia, and proposed that NATO membership for controlled areas could lead to diplomatic reclamation of occupied regions. Amid escalating tensions, Zelensky also announced changes in military leadership to bolster defenses.

In a recent broadcast interview, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky stated that any offer of NATO membership for Ukraine must encompass all regions under its internationally recognized borders to effectively conclude the ongoing conflict with Russia. He emphasized that granting NATO membership to only a portion of Ukraine would imply recognition of Russian control over the occupied territories, which contradicts Ukraine’s constitutional stance. Zelensky asserted, “You can’t give an invitation to just one part of a country.” He laid out a vision in which accepting territories currently under Ukrainian control into NATO would allow the remaining regions to be reclaimed through diplomatic means. Zelensky’s proposal reflects his ‘victory plan’ aimed at strengthening Ukraine’s negotiating power. As military tensions escalate across the front lines, Zelensky announced a reshuffling of military leadership, appointing General Mykhailo Drapatyi to head the Ground Forces among other personnel changes.

The current geopolitical situation between Ukraine and Russia remains tense, with the war intensifying since 2022, resulting in significant territorial disputes. NATO’s potential membership for Ukraine is fraught with complexities mainly related to the demarcation of national borders and the recognition of territorial sovereignty. Zelensky’s push for NATO membership aligns with broader international support for Ukraine while addressing pressing military needs as Russian forces continue their territorial offensive. NATO has publicly committed to supporting Ukraine, and discussions among member states regarding military assistance continue. This context of urgency underlines Zelensky’s appeal for rapid NATO integration of Ukrainian-controlled areas.

President Zelensky’s recent remarks spotlight the critical connection between NATO membership and Ukraine’s territorial integrity. By insisting on an inclusive NATO offer that spans all of Ukraine, he reinforces the nation’s constitutional mandate and seeks to enhance its diplomatic leverage during ongoing negotiations. As military engagements persist and leadership changes occur in Ukrainian defense, the outcome of NATO discussions may determine the future trajectory of Ukraine’s territorial dispute with Russia.

Original Source: www.arabnews.com