Zelenskyy Appeals for NATO Support Post-U.S. Elections Amid Ongoing War with Russia
KYIV, Ukraine (AP) — In a press conference on Monday, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy expressed optimism about his “victory plan” gaining traction among international allies following the upcoming U.S. elections. However, he acknowledged that a critical aspect of his strategy—Ukraine’s accession to NATO—faces skepticism from significant Western nations, particularly Germany.
Zelenskyy noted that while countries such as France, Britain, and Italy have indicated some support for NATO membership, Germany remains hesitant, viewing the proposal through the lens of potential Russian backlash. “The German side is skeptical about our NATO membership — that’s a fact,” he stated. The Ukrainian leader believes that a strong endorsement from the United States may be essential in persuading Germany to reconsider.
“The fact is that the German side is skeptical about our NATO membership,” Zelenskyy stressed, acknowledging a slight softening of Germany’s stance but highlighting concerns over Russia’s reaction. He indicated that the outcome of the U.S. elections on November 5 would have a significant bearing on how major allies respond to his plan.
With the U.S. focused on its electoral proceedings, Zelenskyy remarked, “After the elections, we hope for a more positive reaction from the U.S. — not because of a change in the president, but because the focus of the United States is now on the elections." He also noted that U.S. partners may currently be cautious in their approach to avoid unnecessary risks associated with Russia.
Even as cease-fire discussions loom, Zelenskyy dismissed speculation that Ukraine might consider a trade-off of occupied territories for NATO membership. "We are not discussing this,” he remarked, dismissing the rumors as media-driven. He emphasized his belief that a halt in Russian attacks on critical energy infrastructure and shipping routes in the Black Sea could signal a de-escalation of the conflict, though he acknowledged that fighting would persist on the front lines.
Addressing the need for improved military capabilities, Zelenskyy reiterated Ukraine’s commitment to NATO as a security guarantee, making it clear that Ukraine has no intentions of pursuing nuclear weapons, having given them up previously. His statement reinforced the notion that NATO membership is a vital pathway to ensuring Ukraine’s defense against ongoing Russian aggression.
As the conflict continues and the landscape of international relations shifts, Zelenskyy is actively seeking to bolster support for Ukraine’s position among Global South countries, aiming to shore up backing for his “victory plan” and exert pressure on Moscow to engage meaningfully in peace negotiations.
