Kyiv, Ukraine – Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has made a bold offer to step down from his position in exchange for Ukraine’s NATO membership in a new effort to end Russia’s three-year-long war.
“Yes, I am happy if it is for the peace of Ukraine,” Zelensky said. If you need me to leave this chair, I am ready. I can also exchange it for NATO membership for Ukraine.”
NATO Membership as a Bargaining Chip
Zelensky’s statement comes as Ukraine continues its push for integration into NATO, a move that has long been a key factor in Ukraine-Russia tensions.
Moscow has repeatedly warned against Ukraine joining the military alliance, citing it as a threat to Russian security.
Trump’s Criticism and Election Controversy
The offer also follows criticism from former U.S. President Donald Trump, who recently referred to Zelensky as a “dictator without elections”, while signaling a closer stance toward Russian President Vladimir Putin.
Ukraine’s elections have been postponed due to martial law, which remains in effect amid the ongoing war.
Although Zelensky’s five-year term was set to expire on May 20, 2024, the country has been unable to hold elections under wartime conditions.
Uncertain Political Future
With Ukraine’s delayed elections becoming a growing topic of debate, Zelensky’s remarks introduce a new element of uncertainty regarding the country’s leadership and NATO aspirations.
As Russia’s invasion continues, it remains unclear whether NATO allies would accept such an offer or how Ukraine’s political landscape might shift shortly.
