Kyiv: Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskiy on Monday emphasized the need for a diplomatic resolution to Russia's ongoing war in Ukraine, suggesting the potential deployment of foreign troops as a security measure until Ukraine gains NATO membership.
Speaking at a press conference alongside German opposition leader Friedrich Merz, Zelenskiy underscored Ukraine's readiness for peace negotiations. His comments follow a meeting with U.S. President-elect Donald Trump and French President Emmanuel Macron in Paris, where Trump called for an immediate ceasefire to end the "madness" of the war.
"Ukraine desires the end of this war more than anyone else," Zelenskiy stated. "A diplomatic solution would undoubtedly save lives, and we actively seek it." However, he reiterated his belief that Russian President Vladimir Putin must be pressured into ending the conflict.
Zelenskiy revealed discussions about freezing current battle lines with Macron and Trump, noting that Russia currently occupies nearly 20% of Ukraine's territory. He emphasized that strengthening Ukraine militarily was a prerequisite for effective diplomacy. "A strong Ukraine on the battlefield is essential before any diplomatic efforts can succeed," he said.
Merz, a leading candidate to become Germany's next chancellor, lent support to Zelenskiy, criticizing Berlin's policies and urging stronger backing for Ukraine.
The Ukrainian leader also revisited an idea proposed by Macron in February about deploying European troops to Ukraine as a temporary security guarantee. "We can explore Emmanuel's proposal, involving troops from European nations to safeguard Ukraine until it joins NATO," Zelenskiy said. However, he stressed the importance of clear timelines for Ukraine's accession to both NATO and the EU.
Zelenskiy highlighted the risks of a security vacuum if Ukraine remains outside NATO while hostilities pause. "Who will guarantee our security during that interim period?" he asked, reaffirming Ukraine's urgent need for security assurances to deter future Russian aggression.
Russia, which views Ukraine's NATO aspirations as a severe security threat, has consistently demanded that Kyiv abandon its pursuit of alliance membership.
Zelenskiy expressed plans to discuss NATO membership with outgoing U.S. President Joe Biden in the coming days. "President Biden's opinion carries significant weight," he noted. "While I respect President Trump, discussions on NATO must involve the current administration."
Zelenskiy’s comments reflect Ukraine’s balancing act of pursuing diplomacy while preparing for continued military resistance, seeking to secure its long-term sovereignty and safety.