President Zelenskyy’s diplomatic strategy for reclaiming Ukrainian territories sets a bold precedent with implications far beyond the borders of Ukraine.
At a Glance
- Zelenskyy emphasizes the need for diplomacy to reclaim occupied territories in Ukraine.
- Importance of including all of Ukraine in NATO membership discussions.
- Zelenskyy does not recognize current Russian occupation.
- Diplomacy seen as a key method for regaining lost regions.
Balancing Diplomacy and Military Preparedness
In a critical conversation with Kyodo News, President Volodymyr Zelenskyy highlighted the indispensable role diplomacy plays in reclaiming Ukraine’s occupied territories. He stressed that Ukraine’s strategies must be a mix of military readiness and diplomatic dialogue. Only after fortifying its military position should Ukraine engage in diplomatic talks. Zelenskyy’s approach is to leverage both military and diplomatic channels. This is aimed at reintegration of externally controlled regions, restoring territorial integrity, and enhancing national stability.
Zelenskyy noted that most territories could ideally be reclaimed through diplomacy. This reflects a vision for long-lasting peace, underscoring a comprehensive resolution that ensures sovereignty. Zelenskyy further expressed that while the military plays a key role, international backing alone is insufficient. He urged NATO to open membership talks, marking a crucial step towards inclusion in the alliance.
EXCLUSIVE: Zelenskyy says Ukraine wants to retake occupied land by diplomacy
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy says his country is seeking an early end to the war with Russia and the return of part of its territory by Moscow through diplomacy after Kyiv's NATO membership…
— Kyodo News | Japan (@kyodo_english) December 2, 2024
NATO Membership and Territorial Integrity
Zelenskyy engaged in discussions with European Council President António Costa to emphasize that NATO membership should cover all of Ukraine, not selectively. He acknowledged NATO’s Article 5 may not apply across Ukraine during wartime. This nuanced acceptance indicates recognition of geopolitical realities, yet firm resistance to partial acceptance of membership criteria. Any partitioned invitation to NATO, Zelenskyy warned, risks implicitly acknowledging Russian claims over parts of Ukraine—a stance Kyiv will never accept.
In a denunciation of Russian territorial claims, Zelenskyy asserted that Ukraine will never recognize Russian-supported occupations. Strategic collaboration with allies is critical. He also stressed how cessation of current hostilities may hinge on Russian-controlled territories and the resumption of negotiations. Ultimately, however, Zelenskyy values a ceasefire, contingent on NATO’s presence, to deter further Russian advances.
UKRAINE’S PRESIDENT ZELENSKY: UKRAINE WANTS TO RETAKE OCCUPIED LAND BY DIPLOMACY – KYODO. https://t.co/iSCG6wbsPt
— FinancialJuice (@financialjuice) December 2, 2024
Ceasefire and Diplomatic Solutions
Zelenskyy remarked on recent geopolitical complexities, citing claims of North Korean forces in Russia. He criticized Russian reliance on foreign soldiers, depicting it as an unsustainable strategy. Despite advocating diplomacy, Zelenskyy dismissed capitulation, reaffirming Ukraine’s defense mechanisms and the commitment to reclaim territories taken by force. This stance marks the first time he suggested accepting Russian control temporarily, provided progress is made diplomatically.
“If we want to stop the hot phase of the war, we need to take under the NATO umbrella the territory of Ukraine that we have under our control,” he said. “We need to do it fast. And then on the [occupied] territory of Ukraine, Ukraine can get them back in a diplomatic way.”
Zelenskyy expressed a desire to work directly with U.S. President-elect Donald Trump, stressing communication’s clarity and effectiveness. As Russia continues eastward campaigns, Zelenskyy’s dual approach hopes to safeguard Ukraine’s sovereignty while seeking international aid.
