Zelenskyy and Rutte discuss Ukraine’s NATO invitation and military strengthening
Photo: NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte and President of Ukraine Volodymyr Zelenskyy (RBC-Ukraine collage)
President Volodymyr Zelenskyy had a phone conversation with NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte. They discussed the importance of inviting Ukraine to join the Alliance and strengthening the combat brigades of the Armed Forces, according to the President's Telegram channel.
"I had a conversation with NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte and thanked him for holding the NATO-Ukraine Council meeting at the level of the foreign ministers in Brussels," President Zelenskyy stated.
The President emphasized the importance of inviting Ukraine to NATO and ensuring timely reinforcement of Ukraine's combat brigades with ammunition, weapons, and military equipment. He also stressed the need to bolster the country’s defenses during the winter to counter Russia's aerial terror.
"We are coordinating our positions to bring about a just and lasting peace, as supporting Ukraine is crucial not only for our country but also for all European partners. The security of one is the foundation for the security of all," Zelenskyy noted.
Ukraine’s NATO membership
Ukraine expected to receive an official invitation to join NATO during the NATO summit in Washington in July this year. However, this did not happen.
Kyiv insists on a clear timetable for accession, but no concrete decisions have been made. The Alliance emphasizes that the “door to NATO” remains open, but membership is not possible until the war is over.
President Zelenskyy has described a NATO invitation as key to Ukraine’s victory, seeking to secure it before a potential return of Donald Trump to the White House, given concerns about possible shifts in US policy.
The President has also suggested that for the active phase of the war to end, part of Ukraine’s territories should be placed under NATO’s "umbrella," while the rest could be reclaimed through diplomatic means. However, he clarified that Ukraine has not considered such a proposal as it has never been formally offered.
NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte commented on the idea, emphasizing that Ukraine currently needs more military aid rather than discussions about the peace process from its allies.
