Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy reaffirmed on Tuesday his nation’s ambition to join NATO, declaring that this goal remains steadfast. Speaking alongside NATO Secretary-General Mark Rutte, Zelenskyy stated, “This direction is not changing.”
Rutte emphasized that NATO is actively engaged in creating pathways for Ukraine’s integration, noting that European and Canadian allies have committed €35 billion in support to Kyiv this year.
Notably, the administration of former President Donald Trump has not made any requests for additional military assistance to Ukraine. Zelenskyy highlighted that Ukraine’s NATO membership would be a “mutual opportunity” for the alliance, noting his country’s capability to manufacture 8 million drones annually.
“It is an advantageous proposal for NATO today to have an ally like Ukraine, with NATO weapons, with new technology,” he told Sky News. “We have no secrets, and experienced people with 10 years of different types of fighting.”
However, Trump and his administration have consistently opposed Ukraine’s NATO membership. This contentious issue is likely to surface during the upcoming meeting between the two leaders in The Hague.
While in the Netherlands, Zelenskyy also warned of Russia’s intentions to carry out “destructive operations on NATO territory.” He stated, “Moscow never truly respects any alliance and always betrays its so-called partners … [while] improving its ability to kill.” He stressed the importance of defense solidarity, asserting that it is crucial for allies to support one another against potential threats.