Ukraine Seeks NATO Entry As Path to Peace, Even as US Reports Say Putin May Be Striving for Bigger War
While exploring potential pathways to peace, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has declared that he is willing to consider a ceasefire even before all territory occupied by Russia is recovered, provided Ukraine is assured of membership in NATO. This comes as the New York Times reports that officials briefed on US intelligence assessments say Vladimir Putin may be setting the stage for an expanded war, potentially attacking through Belarus. On the other hand, Ukrainian forces have intercepted Russiandesperately seeking the benefits of joining the transatlantic military alliance.
“We cannot give invitations to join NATO only to some parts of one country,” President Zelensky stated in an interview with Sky News. He emphasized the principle that extending membership must apply to all Ukrainian territory. “This would mean acknowledging that only the territory in question belongs to Ukraine, and the other territory belongs to Russia,” President Zelensky pointed out. However, he outlined a contrasting approach: “to stop the heated phase of the war, the Ukrainian territory we control must be placed under NATO protection.”
This, he insists, needs to happen quickly. “Then Ukraine will be able to regain the occupied territory through diplomatic means,” President Zelensky maintained.
The statements represent a significant shift for Ukraine, as, until recently, Kyiv insisted on the complete recovery of all territory before considering peace talks. The shift comes as NATO membership emerges as a critical priority for Ukraine.
President Zelensky also met with the newly appointed leadership of the European Union. Upon first seeing NATO Secretary General Jens Stoltenberg since his appointment, Zelensky stressed the need for Ukraine to receive a clear pathway into the alliance.
“To stop the heated phase of war we can consider peaceful ways to attain this goal, said Zelensky.
His assessment came just as the US intelligence community expressed concerns that Putin’s initial escalation may be part of a build up for a much larger war.
The Times article quoted “American intelligence assess that suggest ….
US officials have seen signs that Putin is preparing for a larger escalation
The Times also reported that U.S. officials have access to
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It however remains to be seen if there is a willingness within the transformative power. President Zelensky reiterated the Global community to provide more direct s- to ensure
Zelensky’s shift in position comes as international pressure grows around the war in Ukraine.
Joining NATO
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How has the potential for a wider war influenced Ukraine’s stance on negotiating a ceasefire?
## Interview Transcript: Ukraine and NATO
**Host:** Welcome back to the program. Joining us today is Dr. Anya Petrova, a leading expert on Eastern European security and international relations. Dr. Petrova, Ukrainian President Zelenskyy has recently suggested that Ukraine might be open to a ceasefire even before all Russian occupied territory is recovered, but only if guaranteed NATO membership. How significant is this shift in Ukraine’s stance?
**Dr. Petrova:** It’s a very significant shift indeed. Until recently, Kyiv’s position was firm: complete territorial integrity first, then peace talks. Now, they are open to negotiating a ceasefire before reclaiming all lost territory, but only with the security guarantee of NATO membership. This reflects the critical importance NATO membership has become for Ukraine’s future.
**Host:** Can you explain why this is such a crucial issue for Ukraine?
**Dr. Petrova:** It goes beyond simply military protection. For Ukraine, NATO membership is a symbol of international recognition and guarantee of sovereignty. It signals a clear commitment from the West to defend Ukraine and deter future Russian aggression.
**Host:** This comes at a time when there are reports that Putin may be planning a further escalation of the conflict, possibly involving Belarus. How does this potential for a larger war influence Ukraine’s calculations?
**Dr. Petrova:** The threat of a wider conflict undoubtedly plays a role. Ukraine is acutely aware of the vulnerability of its security situation. Seeking NATO protection is a way to counter this vulnerability and ensure its long-term survival.
**Host:** NATO has pledged support to Ukraine, but membership is a long process. Do you see any signs that this could be expedited given the urgency of the situation?
**Dr. Petrova:** That remains to be seen. [1] NATO has announced enhanced military support and financial aid for Ukraine, including F-16 fighter jets and air defense systems. However, the question of fast-tracking membership is complex and politically sensitive.
**Host:** Thank you, Dr. Petrova, for shedding light on this complex situation. This is certainly a developing story that we will continue to follow closely.
