Zelensky Rejects Partial NATO Membership for Ukraine

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has firmly stated that Ukraine will not accept NATO membership that excludes its Russian-occupied territories, as doing so would imply recognition of the loss of those areas. During a press conference with European Council President António Costa, Zelensky emphasized that any invitation to NATO must encompass all of Ukraine's internationally recognized borders. He acknowledged that while NATO membership could enhance Ukraine's security, the application of NATO's Article 5 collective defense principle might not cover the entire territory during wartime. Zelensky also suggested a potential ceasefire in exchange for NATO membership for government-controlled areas, reiterating that Ukraine's sovereignty remains non-negotiable. Despite expressing willingness to negotiate, Zelensky clarified that no official proposals for partial NATO membership have been received from allies. He underscored that an invitation to NATO limited to parts of Ukraine would signify a dangerous precedent, undermining the country's territorial integrity.