Speaking on December 14 in a WhatsApp chat with journalists, Zelensky noted that Ukraine has always aimed for NATO membership, as it implies real protection. However, some partners from the US and Europe did not support this approach. "Currently, bilateral security guarantees from the US are important for us, as well as similar commitments from European countries, including Canada and Japan. This could help prevent new aggression from Russia," he emphasized.
The president added that for them this already represents a compromise, but such guarantees must be legally binding.
Zelensky made this statement ahead of negotiations with Steve Witkoff, the US president's special envoy, and Jared Kushner, Donald Trump's son-in-law, which began in Berlin on December 14. Witkoff reported that significant progress was made on the first day of meetings, but did not disclose details. The negotiations will continue on December 15.
The refusal to join NATO is one of the points of the peace plan promoted by the Trump administration. The Russian side has repeatedly expressed categorical opposition to Ukraine's accession to the North Atlantic Alliance.
