The Kremlin said today that the issue of Ukraine’s membership in NATO must be the subject of concrete talks, French media reported. Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov said that for Russia, Ukraine’s absence from the alliance is a “cornerstone” of all talks on resolving the conflict in Ukraine.
Peskov added that Russia is waiting for Washington to inform it about the results of today’s talks in Berlin between the United States, European countries and Ukraine, which concern a plan to end the conflict. The talks play a key role in trying to achieve a ceasefire and reduce tensions in the region.
Zelensky offers compromise
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky offered a compromise on Sunday, saying that Ukraine would be ready to give up its aspirations for NATO membership if appropriate security guarantees were provided. Zelensky said that, in the event that Ukraine cannot become a member of NATO, the country is seeking binding security guarantees that will protect its sovereignty and territorial integrity.
Zelensky also pointed out that Ukraine is seeking bilateral guarantees, similar to those offered by NATO membership, which would be legally binding and supported by the US Congress. He also emphasized that such guarantees should be supported by European partners and other allies, in order to stop any continuation of Russian aggression after a possible ceasefire.
