Ukrainian President's Bold Statement: NATO Membership or Nuclear Weapons

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has made a striking declaration, stating that Ukraine must either join NATO or acquire nuclear weapons. This comes after his 'victory plan' received a tepid response from US officials in Washington last month.

Provocative Comments at the European Council

Zelensky's controversial remarks were made during his address to the EU’s European Council in Brussels. He referenced a recent private conversation with Republican presidential candidate Donald Trump, expressing to him Ukraine's need for an alliance or the necessity to pursue nuclear weapons. He stated, "Either Ukraine will have nuclear weapons, which for us will be a defense, or we’ll need to have some sort of alliance, besides NATO. But today we know of no other alliance."

NATO as a Preferred Option

Zelensky further elaborated on Ukraine's preference for NATO over nuclear weapons. He stated that NATO countries are not at war and people are still alive in these countries, hence their choice of NATO over nuclear weapons. He also mentioned the Budapest Memorandum, a 1994 agreement where Ukraine agreed to give up its nuclear arsenal from Soviet times in exchange for security guarantees from Russia, the US, and UK.

Downplaying Nuclear Remarks

Following his address, Zelensky appeared alongside NATO Secretary-General Mark Rutte and attempted to downplay his nuclear remarks. He clarified that Ukraine is not preparing to create nuclear weapons. However, former Russian president and current deputy chairman of the Security Council Dmitry Medvedev claimed that Ukraine is working on a dirty bomb, dismissing Zelensky's nuclear rhetoric as nonsense.

Potential Fallout of Nuclear Development

If Ukraine continues to push for nuclear development, it may risk alienating the US and the West, potentially leading to a reduction in long-term support. This comes amid accusations that arms and ammunition supplies have been dwindling. Zelensky's key message to the EU was that a "dangerous winter" lies ahead, making immediate financial and weapons aid crucial.

Bottom Line

President Zelensky's bold statement has certainly stirred the international community. The prospect of Ukraine either joining NATO or pursuing nuclear weapons presents a complex and potentially volatile scenario. This raises important questions about the future of international relations and security. What are your thoughts on this development? Do share this article with your friends and join the conversation. Don't forget to sign up for the Daily Briefing, which is available every day at 6pm.