Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has expressed willingness to step down from his position in exchange for Ukraine’s NATO membership, as the country marks the third anniversary of Russia’s full-scale invasion.
Zelensky’s Statement on Presidency and NATO
During a press conference, Zelensky responded to a question about his leadership, saying:
“If you need me to leave this chair, I am ready to do that. And I also can exchange it for NATO membership for Ukraine.”
His remarks come amid growing international discussions about Ukraine’s security future. Zelensky also addressed recent criticism from former U.S. President Donald Trump, who referred to him as a “dictator without elections.”
“I wasn’t offended by the comment, but a dictator would be,” said Zelensky, emphasizing that he was democratically elected in 2019.
Under Ukrainian law, elections cannot be held while martial law is in place, which has been enforced since Russia’s invasion in February 2022.
EU Leaders Visit Kyiv to Discuss Security Guarantees
A high-profile European delegation, including Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez, European Council President António Costa, and European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen, is in Kyiv to show support and discuss security arrangements.
Zelensky confirmed that Ukraine’s NATO membership would be a key topic but remained uncertain about the outcome of discussions. “I hope it will be a turning point,” he said.
Concerns Over U.S. Policy and Trump’s Stance on Mediation
As political leaders in Europe worry that Ukraine is being sidelined in peace negotiations, Zelensky expressed his hope that Trump, if re-elected, would act as a true partner rather than just a mediator between Kyiv and Moscow.
“I really want it to be more than just mediation… that’s not enough,” he said.
Meanwhile, talks continue between Ukraine and the U.S. over a potential deal granting Washington access to Ukraine’s rare earth minerals. Zelensky acknowledged progress but insisted that U.S. support in ending Russia’s aggression must be prioritized.
Largest Drone Attack on Ukraine to Date
Zelensky’s statements came just hours after Ukraine endured its most extensive drone assault since the war began. Russia launched a record 267 drones in a coordinated overnight attack, targeting 13 regions. Ukrainian air defenses intercepted 138 drones, while 119 decoy drones were neutralized through jamming technology. However, infrastructure damage and at least three casualties were reported.
Ukraine’s Air Force reported that over the past week alone, Russia had launched 1,150 drones, 1,400 bombs, and 35 missiles against Ukrainian targets.
First Lady Olena Zelenska highlighted the devastation on social media, writing:
“It was another night of explosions, burning houses and cars, and destroyed infrastructure. Another night when people prayed for their loved ones to survive.”
Zelensky has reiterated his appeal for continued support from the U.S. and Europe to facilitate a lasting and just peace.
