Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky stated on Sunday that he would be willing to step down if it meant ending the war in Ukraine or securing the country’s entry into NATO.
Speaking at the Ukraine: Year 2025 forum, Zelensky quipped that he could trade his presidency for NATO membership, emphasizing that Kyiv needs security guarantees to be in the strongest possible position during potential peace negotiations with Russia.
“Yes, I am happy if it is for the peace of Ukraine. Or trade it for NATO,” he said, calling NATO membership the “cheapest option” for ensuring Ukraine’s security.
During a press conference in Kyiv, Zelensky also addressed U.S. Donald Trump, saying he hopes the former president would act as more than just a mediator between Kyiv and Moscow.
“I really want it to be more than just mediation… that’s not enough,” he stressed.
The remarks follow Trump’s recent comment branding Zelensky a “dictator without elections.” Ukraine has not held elections since the war began, as its legislation prohibits elections under martial law.
