Zelenskyy: NATO Membership Hinges on US Green Light to Sway Germany

Zelenskyy NATO membership/ U.S. support for Ukraine/ Germany NATO stance/ Ukraine-Russia war/ Ukraine victory plan/ Newslooks/ KYIV/ Ukraine/ J. Mansour/ Morning Edition/ Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy believes that U.S. support after the upcoming election is crucial for convincing Germany to back Ukraine’s bid for NATO membership, a key demand in his “victory plan” to end the war with Russia. While countries like France, the U.K., and Italy have shown support, Germany remains hesitant due to fears of provoking Russia. Zelenskyy is optimistic that after the U.S. election, allies may take a more decisive stance on the matter.

Zelenskyy Pushes for NATO Membership, Awaits U.S. Support: Quick Looks

• Ukrainian President Zelenskyy says Ukraine’s NATO membership largely depends on U.S. approval, which could sway Germany.
• Zelenskyy hopes for a stronger response to his “victory plan” after the U.S. election in November.
• Despite support from France, the U.K., and Italy, Germany remains cautious about NATO membership due to concerns over Russia’s reaction.
• Zelenskyy dismisses the idea of trading territory for NATO membership and hopes for a deal with Russia on energy infrastructure and Black Sea routes.

Zelenskyy: NATO Membership Hinges on US Green Light to Sway Germany

Deep Look:

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy is looking to his Western allies for stronger support in advancing his “victory plan” to end the war with Russia, a plan that includes securing an invitation for Ukraine to join NATO. In remarks to journalists on Monday, Zelenskyy emphasized that while countries like France, the United Kingdom, and Italy are showing positive signs of backing Ukraine’s NATO aspirations, Germany remains hesitant, largely due to fears of provoking Russia.

Zelenskyy believes that the U.S. plays a pivotal role in changing Germany’s stance. “Germany is skeptical about our NATO membership,” Zelenskyy admitted, adding that while their position has softened, it is still deeply influenced by concerns about Russia’s reaction. He is confident, however, that a firm endorsement from the United States after the November 5 election would be the tipping point that sways Berlin.

The Role of U.S. Support Post-Election

Zelenskyy is acutely aware that the U.S. election has shifted American attention away from the war, but he remains hopeful that after the election, Washington will take a more decisive role. “The U.S. is analyzing our victory plan,” he explained, but he doesn’t expect concrete responses until after the election. He believes the current hesitation is due to the political risks involved in making bold statements while U.S. domestic politics are in flux.

Despite this, Zelenskyy remains optimistic that once the election is over, the U.S. will refocus on Ukraine, and a more favorable position on NATO membership could emerge. “After the elections, we hope for a more positive reaction from the U.S.,” he said.

NATO and Cease-Fire Speculations

Zelenskyy also addressed growing speculation in the media about potential cease-fire scenarios in which Ukraine would exchange occupied territories for NATO membership. Dismissing these reports, he stated firmly that there are no discussions about making such a trade. “These media leaks are not accidental,” he said, suggesting that some partners might be testing the waters through unofficial channels. However, Zelenskyy reiterated that Ukraine will not negotiate on ceding territory.

He did, however, indicate that if Russia were willing to negotiate over halting attacks on energy infrastructure and Black Sea shipping routes, it could mark the beginning of the end of the war’s “hot phase.” While this would reduce attacks on civilians, Zelenskyy acknowledged that military operations would likely continue along the front lines.

Global Diplomacy and the Role of the Global South

As part of his broader strategy to push for peace, Zelenskyy emphasized his efforts to win over countries in the Global South, many of whom have remained neutral in the conflict. By aligning more nations with Ukraine’s goals, Zelenskyy hopes to put additional pressure on Russia to agree to a cease-fire or peace deal on Kyiv’s terms. His plan includes not only securing Ukraine’s borders but also integrating the country more deeply into Western defense structures like NATO.

Zelenskyy also clarified that Ukraine is not pursuing nuclear weapons, despite Russia’s aggression. “We are not asking to be given or returned nuclear weapons,” he said, adding that Ukraine’s path to security lies in NATO membership, which would provide the necessary protection against Russian President Vladimir Putin.

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