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Ukraine's NATO membership depends on Trump, Zelensky says in Davos

22.01.2025 16:00
President Volodymyr Zelensky said at the World Economic Forum in Davos that Ukraine's NATO membership depends on U.S. support, specifically from President Donald Trump.
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky speaks at a plenary session during the 55th annual World Economic Forum (WEF) meeting in Davos, Switzerland, 21 January 2025. The World Economic Forums annual meeting gathers entrepreneurs, scientists, and corporate and political leaders in Davos from January 20 to 24.
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky speaks at a plenary session during the 55th annual World Economic Forum (WEF) meeting in Davos, Switzerland, 21 January 2025. The World Economic Forum's annual meeting gathers entrepreneurs, scientists, and corporate and political leaders in Davos from January 20 to 24. Photo: MICHAEL BUHOLZER/PAP/EPA

"The issue of NATO membership depends particularly on the U.S. and the president's stance," Zelensky said in Davos. He explained that if Trump is willing to accept Ukraine into NATO, the country will join and receive full support, but if Trump is not open to it, Ukraine will not become a member.

Zelensky supports deploying peacekeeping forces on Ukrainian soil after the war ends, suggesting at least 200,000 European troops are needed to deter future Russian aggression.

He emphasized that Ukraine’s NATO aspirations are currently hindered by opposition from countries like the U.S. and Germany and cannot proceed while the war with Russia continues.

Additionally, Zelensky mentioned that U.S. Special Envoy General Keith Kellogg may visit Kyiv, possibly accompanied by others.

"In times of war, everyone worries whether the United States will stay by their side. Every ally feels this way. But does anyone in the U.S. worry that Europe might one day abandon them as an ally? The answer is no. Washington doesn’t believe Europe can offer them anything truly significant," Ukraine’s president also remarked during the World Economic Forum.

Source: IAR/PAP/X/@ZelenskyyUa

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