Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has indicated for the first time that he would consider a cease-fire agreement with Russia, under the condition that NATO provides protection to the unoccupied parts of Ukraine.
Zelenskyy made this statement during an interview with Sky News on Nov. 29, stating that such an agreement would allow Ukraine to seek the return of its occupied lands from Russia through diplomatic means.
He emphasized the need for swift action, saying, “If we want to stop the hot phase of the war, we need to take under the NATO umbrella the territory of Ukraine that we have under our control. And then on the [occupied] territory of Ukraine, Ukraine can get them back in a diplomatic way.”
This marks the first time that Zelenskyy has shown willingness to consider a cease-fire arrangement where Ukraine does not have full control of its territory.
Despite these developments, it is uncertain whether Russia or NATO would agree to Zelenskyy’s proposal. Ukraine has been seeking NATO membership since 1997, but Russian President Vladimir Putin opposes this, citing security concerns.
Additionally, Ukraine may face challenges in meeting NATO’s standards for transparency and anti-corruption measures. The nation has a history of corruption, although efforts have been made to improve in recent years.
Furthermore, NATO may be reluctant to accept Ukraine into the alliance while the country lays claims to territories occupied by Russia, as this could potentially drag NATO into a conflict through mutual defense obligations.
Zelenskyy’s remarks come in the context of President-elect Donald Trump nominating retired Gen. Keith Kellogg as a special envoy for Ukraine and Russia. Kellogg has proposed a plan to freeze front lines and facilitate negotiations between Kyiv and Moscow to end the war.
Zelenskyy expressed his desire to work directly with Trump to bring an end to the conflict, highlighting the importance of maintaining open communication to achieve peace.
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