Kyiv: Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskiy has reaffirmed that Ukraine has no intention of altering its constitution, which enshrines the country’s goal of joining NATO, rejecting any external pressure to modify the strategic document. His remarks come days after he suggested Ukraine could consider deferring its NATO ambitions in exchange for robust bilateral security guarantees similar to NATO’s Article 5 protection.
Speaking to reporters following meetings with European Union leaders in Brussels, Zelenskiy emphasized that constitutional amendments must reflect the will of the Ukrainian people. “To be honest, I don't think we need to change our country's constitution,” he said, adding firmly, “Certainly not because of calls from the Russian Federation or anyone else.” He stressed that decisions regarding the nation’s strategic goals belong solely to Ukrainians, and any external attempts to influence them would be unacceptable.
The President’s statements come amid ongoing diplomatic efforts to secure lasting security guarantees for Ukraine as it faces Russian aggression, now entering its fourth year. Kyiv has long insisted that protection against future incursions, supported by allies including the United States, is a key prerequisite for any peace negotiations. Zelenskiy warned that discussions could risk moving toward pressure to trade concessions on other matters in exchange for such guarantees, a scenario Kyiv considers unacceptable. “There must be partnership. There can be no question of exchange here,” he affirmed.
Ukraine’s constitution has included NATO and European Union membership as strategic goals since 2019. While NATO membership is currently not supported by all alliance members due to ongoing security concerns, Ukraine remains steadfast in its aspiration, insisting that any compromise must preserve its core constitutional objectives. Zelenskiy’s reaffirmation underscores Kyiv’s commitment to maintain sovereignty in its strategic choices while exploring alternative security arrangements that could offer protection without abandoning its Euro-Atlantic integration goals.
The President’s comments signal a firm stance in the face of continued Russian demands for Kyiv to renounce NATO ambitions a recurring condition in Moscow’s proposals to end hostilities. At the same time, they reflect Ukraine’s careful balancing act in negotiations with Western allies, emphasizing both the importance of external support and the inviolability of constitutional principles.