In order to end the “hot phase of the war” , it is necessary to offer NATO membership to the unoccupied parts of Ukraine, as long as the invitation recognizes the internationally recognized borders of the country, said Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky in an interview with “Sky News", quoted by dariknews.bg.
He proposed a ceasefire agreement that would place Ukrainian-controlled territory „under the NATO umbrella”, with diplomatic efforts focused on the return of the remaining territories.
Zelensky admitted that the occupied eastern parts of Ukraine would remain outside such an agreement for the time being, but stressed that it was important for this to happen „quickly” to prevent further aggression by Vladimir Putin. According to him, this is the only way to ensure that Russia will not continue to occupy Ukrainian territory.
The Ukrainian leader expressed his readiness to work directly with Donald Trump if he is re-elected as US President. Zelensky noted that communication with him is important to avoid a „destructive dialogue”, and added that they already had a „very warm and constructive meeting” in September.
The interview is the first in which Zelensky has hinted at an agreement that includes Russian control of Ukrainian territory. However, he stressed that such a decision must be approved by the Ukrainian people, and the country's constitution does not allow ceding territories.
Currently, about a fifth of the territory of Ukraine remains under Russian control. In September 2022 Russia announced the annexation of Donetsk, Kherson, Luhansk and Zaporozhye regions after referendums that were not recognized by the international community. Zelensky maintains the position that these lands are illegally occupied and will not be ceded in exchange for peace.
Although Ukrainian forces continue to resist, recent months have shown Russian gains in the east of the country, while Kiev's forces are on the back foot.