Zelensky's Message to Commanders: Victory Over Russia is Key to NATO Membership

Ukraine's President's Stance on NATO Membership

President Zelensky of Ukraine has reportedly communicated to his senior military commanders that a victory against Russia is crucial for their aspiration to join NATO. This news was captured and translated by Russian state media from key parts of the President's speech. "We can only join NATO if we win. I don't believe we will be admitted while the war is ongoing," Zelensky stated during a meeting with officers. This statement has been corroborated by Ukrainian sources.

Current NATO Leaders' Perception of Ukraine

Zelensky acknowledged that the current NATO leaders perceive the situation as risky, while others are simply doubtful. He added, "Therefore, for Ukraine to be accepted into the alliance, we need victory." This week, Stoltenberg, the NATO Secretary-General, visited Ukraine. Zelensky further expressed that Ukraine's independence can be guaranteed permanently only by becoming a full member of NATO.

NATO Membership for Kiev: A Distant Dream

From the perspective of Brussels and Washington, the idea of NATO membership for Kiev has been put on hold. This is despite the enthusiastic rhetoric of some hawkish officials in the West. This is because NATO's Article 5 common defense treaty would mean an automatic war with Russia. NATO, as a policy, does not admit nations that are in a state of active war or have a hot conflict on their border. This is because it would force the entire alliance to intervene militarily. In this case, admission would lead to an immediate nuclear-armed confrontation with Russia. However, given the continued escalation of the West, this is where things may eventually lead.

Slow Pace of Weapons Delivery: A Concern for NATO

Meanwhile, NATO Secretary-General Jens Stoltenberg has been criticizing members of the alliance for the slow pace of weapons delivery. This comes at a time when Ukraine has admitted being pushed back along some key frontline positions. Earlier this week, Ukraine's defense chief admitted that a tactical retreat is underway. "I know that serious delays in support have meant serious consequences on the battlefield," Stoltenberg said at a joint press conference with Zelensky. He added, "For months, the US was unable to agree on a package. And European Allies have been unable to deliver ammunition at the scale we promised."

Ukraine's Creative Arguments

Meanwhile, the arguments coming from Kiev are getting increasingly creative. Zelensky is hopeful for aircraft next: "I am confident that we will have modern aircraft that will also be a part of this system," Zelensky said of future aid packages from the West. He is also urging that more Patriot systems be sent, while Russia continues pounding Odessa in the south, and cities in the north.

Final Thoughts

This article sheds light on the complex dynamics surrounding Ukraine's bid for NATO membership and its ongoing conflict with Russia. It raises thought-provoking questions about the implications of NATO's policies and the potential consequences of Ukraine's admission into the alliance. What are your thoughts on this matter? Feel free to share this article with your friends and engage in a discussion. Don't forget to sign up for the Daily Briefing, which is available every day at 6pm.