Zelensky Demands NATO Guarantees, Weapons Before Talks

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky emphasized on Sunday that NATO security guarantees and advanced weaponry are critical for Ukraine’s survival. His remarks came during a press conference following meetings with the EU’s new head of diplomacy, Kaja Kallas, and EU Council chief, Antonio Costa, in Kyiv.

“An invitation for Ukraine to join NATO is a necessary thing for our survival,” Zelensky stated, reiterating the importance of NATO membership to ensure Ukraine’s long-term security.

Strengthening Ukraine’s Defense

With a challenging winter ahead and Russian forces targeting critical infrastructure, Zelensky stressed that Ukraine must be in a “strong position” before considering talks with Russia. He called for:

• NATO’s security guarantees to prevent further aggression.
• Long-range weaponry to strengthen Ukraine’s defenses.

Zelensky stated, “Only when we have all these items and we are strong, after that, we have to make the very important… agenda of meeting with one or another of the killers.”

European Union’s Support

EU Council chief Antonio Costa reaffirmed the EU’s unwavering commitment to Ukraine. “We have stood with you since the very first day of this war of aggression, and you can count on us to continue to stand with you,” Costa declared.

Kaja Kallas echoed similar sentiments, emphasizing NATO membership as Kyiv’s strongest security guarantee.

Russian Escalation and Global Concerns

Russian President Vladimir Putin recently threatened Kyiv with missile strikes in response to the US approving long-range ATACMS missiles for Ukraine. Meanwhile, Russian forces continue to escalate attacks, including a drone strike on a bus in the Kherson region, which killed three civilians.

Challenges in NATO Membership

Despite Ukraine’s plea, NATO diplomats indicated little likelihood of immediate membership due to concerns among member nations about being drawn into the conflict. Zelensky acknowledged the reluctance from leaders like US President Joe Biden and Hungary’s Prime Minister Viktor Orbán but stressed the importance of NATO’s strategic involvement.

Concerns About Ceasefire

Zelensky warned against a “frozen conflict,” arguing that a weak peace deal could allow Russia to reinitiate aggression in the future. He called for guaranteed protections for Ukrainian-controlled territories to halt the “hot stage of the war.”

Global Implications

As the US prepares for a potential shift in leadership, fears grow over reduced support under Donald Trump’s administration. EU officials, including Kallas, stressed the strategic importance of aiding Ukraine to counter global threats posed by adversaries like China and Iran.