Zelensky Open to Sacrificing Presidency for NATO Membership Amid Ongoing Conflict

In a striking statement ahead of the third anniversary of Russia's full-scale invasion, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky expressed a willingness to relinquish his presidency in exchange for NATO membership, emphasizing his commitment to securing peace for Ukraine. "If you need me to leave this chair, I am ready to do that," Zelensky declared during a recent news conference, underscoring the dire circumstances faced by his nation.

Zelensky's remarks followed recent criticism from former U.S. President Donald Trump, who referred to him as a "dictator without elections." The Ukrainian leader, democratically elected in May 2019, responded coolly to the comment, stating, "I wasn't offended by the comment, but a dictator would be."

The war in Ukraine continues to impose stringent limitations, including a ban on elections during martial law—a condition enforced since the onset of the invasion in February 2022. As authorities amidst ongoing hostilities, Zelensky revealed that his primary focus remains on Ukraine's security, asserting that he never envisioned a decade-long presidency.

On the diplomatic front, leaders from the European Union and around the world are set to convene in Kyiv on Monday to reaffirm their support for Ukraine and discuss vital security guarantees. Key figures, including Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez, European Council President Antonio Costa, and European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen, are expected to attend the high-stakes meeting.

Zelensky confirmed that the possibility of Ukraine joining NATO will be a central topic of discussion at the gathering, although he remained uncertain about the potential outcomes. He expressed hope that the meeting could serve as a "turning point," urging for a resolution that could lead to an end to the conflict ignited by Russian President Vladimir Putin.