NATO Membership: Zelenskyy Advocates for Ukraine’s Full Territorial Inclusion

KYIV, Ukraine (AP) — President Volodymyr Zelenskyy stated that NATO membership for the territory under Ukraine’s control could end the ongoing conflict. He emphasized that any invitation to join NATO should apply to all areas within internationally recognized borders. Zelenskyy noted the importance of including the entire country in NATO discussions to avoid recognizing Russian-occupied areas as part of Russia.

Zelenskyy asserted that Ukraine’s Constitution does not allow recognition of occupied territory as Russian. He suggested that once NATO covers the controlled territory, Ukraine could diplomatically reclaim its other territories. This proposal aligns with Zelenskyy’s "victory plan," aimed at enhancing Ukraine’s position in negotiations with Russia.

NATO Secretary-General Mark Rutte indicated that the alliance must increase its support for Ukraine. The upcoming NATO foreign ministers’ meeting in Brussels will focus on military aid and steps to advance peace efforts.

Any NATO membership for Ukraine requires approval from all member states and a thorough process. There’s uncertainty regarding the foreign policy of U.S. President-elect Donald Trump, who has previously expressed intentions to resolve the conflict quickly but has not shared a detailed plan.

As Ukraine faces pressure along its extensive front lines, Russian forces have made recent advancements. Ukraine reported casualties from a Russian missile strike in Dnipropetrovsk. In response, Ukraine’s air force shot down several attacking drones.

Zelenskyy announced changes to military leadership to better address battlefield challenges. New appointments include Gen. Mykhailo Drapatyi as the head of Ukraine’s Ground Forces and Oleh Apostol as deputy commander-in-chief.

For ongoing updates on the war in Ukraine, visit AP’s coverage.