Why Zelenskyy keeps pushing for Ukraine NATO membership even though Trump says it’s not happening

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy is standing firm in his pursuit of NATO membership for his country, despite President Donald Trump’s recent comments suggesting otherwise. Zelenskyy has made it clear that he is committed to securing NATO membership for Ukraine, even stating that he would step down as president if it meant NATO would adopt his country.

In a recent interview with the BBC, Zelenskyy reiterated his position, stating, “I want to find a NATO path or something similar.” He emphasized the importance of security guarantees for Ukraine, noting that without them, a ceasefire and lasting peace would be difficult to achieve.

Zelenskyy is set to visit the White House on Friday, with Trump stating that a peace negotiation to end the conflict between Ukraine and Russia is in its final stages. However, no deal has been secured yet, and Trump has been hesitant to discuss plans for a peacekeeping force in the region until a deal is reached.

Despite Trump’s reservations, Zelenskyy remains determined to push for NATO membership for Ukraine. Experts believe that NATO membership would reduce the likelihood of further hostilities from Russia, as it would mean that other NATO members are obligated to defend Ukraine in the event of an attack.

Peter Rough, a senior fellow at the Hudson Institute, believes that bringing Ukraine into NATO would make Ukraine a more significant player than Russia. This would make Putin think twice about restarting a war, knowing that major Western powers are obligated to defend Ukraine.

If NATO membership is not possible, Zelenskyy’s fallback position is to secure support from Western troops to promote a ceasefire. For example, UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer has offered to send troops to Ukraine if necessary to ensure peace between Ukraine and Russia.

John Hardie, deputy director of the Foundation for Defense of Democracies’ Russia program, believes that another conflict between Russia and Ukraine is likely. He argues that NATO membership for Ukraine is the best option for preserving Ukraine’s safety against Russian aggression.

Zelenskyy is prepared to discuss important questions with Trump during his visit, including whether the US will continue to provide aid to Ukraine. Congress has allocated $175 billion in aid to Ukraine since 2022, according to the Council on Foreign Relations.

To recoup some of these costs, Trump has hinted at a rare-earth minerals deal between the US and Ukraine, which would allow both countries to partner on developing resources like oil and gas. The agreement would provide the US access to Ukraine’s minerals and help Ukraine rebuild from the war.

In conclusion, Zelenskyy’s determination to secure NATO membership for Ukraine and his willingness to explore all options for peace and security in the region highlight his commitment to ensuring the safety and stability of his country. Despite challenges and differing opinions, Zelenskyy remains steadfast in his pursuit of a peaceful and secure future for Ukraine.