NATO’s Chief of Staff, Stian Jenssen, put forward a thought-provoking idea on Tuesday, suggesting that Ukraine might consider gaining NATO membership by ceding certain territories to Russia as part of a potential resolution to the ongoing conflict. Jenssen’s remarks were reported by Norwegian newspaper Verdens Gang.
Jenssen emphasized that the decision about negotiations and the terms thereof should rest with Ukraine. He acknowledged that Ukraine holds the agency to determine when and under what conditions it engages in talks.
Regarding whether NATO perceives the relinquishment of land as a prerequisite for Ukraine to achieve peace with Russia and to secure eventual NATO membership, Jenssen noted that discussions concerning the potential aftermath of the conflict are already underway. He noted that the topic of ceding territories to Russia has been raised by others and while he didn’t assert that this must be the precise approach, he indicated it could be a plausible solution.
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has repeatedly articulated that Ukraine remains resolute in not surrendering any territory to Russia in exchange for ending the conflict. Zelenskyy’s stance has been firm: “We will liberate our territory with military, diplomatic and all other available means until we reach the legal borders of Ukraine.” He expressed unwavering commitment, asserting that Ukrainians will safeguard their independence and stand united.
Zelenskyy underlined, “We will not give up anything. And we will fight for every meter of our land, for every person.”
NATO Secretary General Jens Stoltenberg had previously highlighted the importance of bolstering Ukraine’s military capabilities. He stressed that allies should continue to supply military equipment to Ukraine as the nation strives to reclaim its territories from Russian occupying forces.