Why Zelenskyy keeps pushing for Ukraine NATO membership even though Trump says it’s not happening

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy’s Unwavering Push for NATO Membership

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has made it abundantly clear that he will not back down from his goal of securing NATO membership for Ukraine, even in the face of resistance from former U.S. President Donald Trump. Despite Trump’s remarks suggesting that Zelenskyy should abandon hopes of joining the alliance, the Ukrainian leader remains resolute. In fact, Zelenskyy has gone as far as to say that he would step down as president if it meant Ukraine could join NATO. This stance underscores the importance Zelenskyy places on NATO membership as a means of ensuring Ukraine’s security and stability in the face of ongoing tensions with Russia. During a recent interview with the BBC, Zelenskyy reiterated his commitment, stating, "I want to find a NATO path or something similar."

The Strategic Importance of NATO Membership for Ukraine

Zelenskyy’s determination to join NATO is rooted in the belief that membership would provide Ukraine with the security guarantees it desperately needs. Article 5 of the NATO treaty, which states that an attack on one member is an attack on all, is particularly significant in this context. By joining NATO, Ukraine would gain the collective defense commitment of all member states, significantly deterring Russian aggression. Peter Rough, a senior fellow at the Hudson Institute, explained that NATO membership would make Ukraine "bigger than Russia" in the eyes of Vladimir Putin, forcing the Russian leader to think twice before escalating hostilities. However, Trump has expressed hesitation about Ukraine’s potential membership, likely due to the geopolitical and financial implications for the United States and its European allies.

Expert Opinions on the Feasibility and Implications of NATO Membership

Experts like Peter Rough and John Hardie of the Foundation for Defense of Democracies agree that NATO membership is the most effective way to ensure Ukraine’s long-term safety. Rough highlighted that with Western backing, Ukraine’s strategic importance would surpass that of Russia, making it a crucial player in European security. However, he also acknowledged that achieving NATO membership is no small feat, given the political and logistical challenges involved. Hardie emphasized that the conflict between Russia and Ukraine is far from resolved, with Putin aiming to establish Ukraine as a vassal state and reshape Europe’s security architecture. In this context, NATO membership for Ukraine is not just a symbolic gesture but a necessities to counter Russian ambitions.

Alternatives to NATO Membership and the Role of Western Support

Should NATO membership prove unattainable, Zelenskyy has not ruled out alternative measures to secure Ukraine’s safety. One such option is the deployment of Western troops to enforce a ceasefire and provide a post-war security presence. U.K. Prime Minister Keir Starmer has already indicated that Britain is prepared to send troops to Ukraine if necessary. However, any such deployment would require a "U.S. backstop," as Starmer put it, to ensure deterrence against Russian aggression. This highlights the critical role the United States must play in providing clarity on its level of commitment to European security initiatives. Additionally, continued military and financial aid from the West will be essential, even if it means exploring innovative solutions, such as using frozen Russian assets to offset the burden on American taxpayers.

The Rare-Earth Minerals Deal and Economic Cooperation

In addition to security concerns, economic cooperation is also high on the agenda for Zelenskyy’s upcoming meeting with Trump. The two leaders are expected to sign a rare-earth minerals deal that would allow the U.S. to partner with Ukraine in developing resources like oil and gas. This agreement not only promises to strengthen economic ties between the two nations but also provides Ukraine with much-needed support for rebuilding its war-torn economy. Trump has described the deal as "very important" and a step toward a "sustainable" future for both countries. While the deal has the potential to bolster Ukraine’s economic resilience, it also serves as a reminder of the broader geopolitical stakes involved in the region.

The Road Ahead for Ukraine and Its Relationship with the West

As Zelenskyy prepares to meet with Trump, the stakes could not be higher. The Ukrainian leader has made it clear that he intends to press Trump on whether the U.S. will continue to provide aid to Ukraine, particularly given the $175 billion already appropriated by Congress since 2022. Zelenskyy has also indicated his willingness to address "very important questions" during the meeting, signaling that the talks will be both substantive and potentially contentious. With no peace deal yet secured and tensions between Ukraine and Russia showing no signs of abating, the outcome of this meeting could have far-reaching implications for the region. Whether through NATO membership, Western troop deployments, or economic partnerships, Ukraine’s future hinges on its ability to secure long-term security guarantees and ensure its independence in the face of Russian aggression. Zelenskyy’s unwavering resolve reflects the resilience of the Ukrainian people and their determination to chart a course toward a more secure and stable future.