Zelensky offers to resign for Ukraine’s NATO membership as Russia launches major drone attack  

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has stated he would resign his presidency in exchange for Ukraine’s membership in NATO. Responding to a question at a news conference, Mr. Zelensky said it was not his “dream” to be president for a decade and that he would leave his position if it led to peace for Ukraine.  

These comments come as Russia launched a large-scale drone attack across Ukraine, the day before the third anniversary of the war. Ukraine’s foreign minister has warned against trusting Russia’s words, urging attention to its actions instead. BBC’s Ukraine correspondent reports that the overnight Russian drone assault was unprecedented in scale.  

Ahead of the war’s third anniversary, the UN Secretary-General has reiterated the “urgent need for a just, sustainable and comprehensive peace” in Ukraine. Antonio Guterres stated that any peace deal must respect Ukraine’s “sovereignty, independence and territorial integrity” and called for “urgent de-escalation and an immediate end to the hostilities.”  

European leaders have expressed their “unflinching” support for Ukraine. European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen said she had spoken with French President Emmanuel Macron and UK Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer, discussing financial and military aid for Ukraine. Earlier in the week, Mr. Macron hosted two summits on Ukraine with various European leaders. He and Sir Keir are both scheduled to visit Washington for talks with the US President this week.  

Analysis:

President Zelensky’s offer to resign for NATO membership highlights the importance Ukraine places on security guarantees as part of any potential peace settlement. His statement underscores the nation’s desire for long-term protection against future Russian aggression. However, the likelihood of immediate NATO membership for Ukraine remains a complex issue, with various political and strategic considerations for the alliance.

The intensified Russian drone attacks on the eve of the war’s three-year anniversary suggest a continued commitment to military pressure, despite international calls for peace. This highlights the deep divisions and lack of trust between the two sides. The UN Secretary-General’s renewed call for peace and the ongoing discussions among European leaders underscore the international community’s continued concern over the conflict and efforts to find a resolution. The upcoming meetings between European leaders and the US President will be closely watched for any indications of shifts in Western policy on the war in Ukraine.