Zelensky, "Ukraine Will Not Join NATO... Perceived as Impossible"

[Image source=EPA Yonhap News]

[Asia Economy Reporter Hyunwoo Lee] Volodymyr Zelensky, President of Ukraine, announced that he would give up on joining the North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO). As the war with Russia enters its 20th day and prolongs, causing increased damage, this is interpreted as a measure to advance peace negotiations with Russia.

According to the Associated Press on the 15th (local time), President Zelensky attended the NATO Joint Expeditionary Force (JEF) leaders' meeting held in London, UK, via video conference and stated, "Ukraine will not join NATO," adding, "We recognize that joining NATO is impossible, and the people understand this as well. We are relying on our own strength."

He continued, "We ask for help for Ukraine to help Europe," emphasizing, "We are Russia's target, and if Ukraine cannot hold out, everything will be unfavorable for Europe." President Zelensky appealed, "It will be very difficult without your support. We need more assistance," and "You will see how expanding support protects your security and safety."

Previously, the Zelensky administration had strongly pursued NATO membership by enshrining it as a national goal in the preamble of the constitution in 2019. However, as Russia's invasion of Ukraine has prolonged, it is interpreted that Ukraine has officially declared giving up NATO membership to advance peace negotiations with Russia.

Ukraine's suspension of its attempt to join NATO is one of the key demands Russia is asserting in the ceasefire negotiations, and Ukraine is expected to present the abandonment of NATO membership as an important bargaining chip.

Meanwhile, peace negotiations between Ukraine and Russia are reportedly making actual progress. Both sides are conducting the fourth round of peace talks, with the atmosphere easing compared to before and gradually finding points of compromise. Ihor Zhovkva, an advisor to the Ukrainian presidential office, stated in a press release on the same day, "The Russian side is no longer demanding Ukraine's surrender," and "Our delegation felt a positive atmosphere after the talks."