Ukraine’s President Volodymyr Zelensky said that his country has not completely dismissed the idea of joining the North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO), the Western armed wing in Europe that is involved in the most recent crisis between Ukraine and Russia.
The removal of this possibility by the Ukrainians would be “accepted” by the Kremlin as a positive sign for the easing of current tensions, but this move was not made by Zelensky – who also stated, however, that joining the group is not a priority in this time.
Zelensky made these statements at a press conference on Monday (14) alongside German Chancellor Olaf Scholz, who traveled to Ukraine before arriving in Moscow on Tuesday (15) to continue negotiations for peace in the region.
“Today, many journalists and leaders insinuate to Ukraine that it is possible not to take risks, not to constantly bring up the question of a future membership of the alliance, because these risks are associated with a reaction from Russia,” said the Ukrainian president. “I believe we should stick to the path we have chosen,” he concluded.
The United States and other NATO member states accuse Russia of planning an attack on Ukraine and point to a growing buildup of military forces on the borders.
The Russians, for their part, deny that there will be an invasion, but ask that NATO distance itself from Ukraine and its intentions to make the border country one of its members in Europe.
During the press conference, Olaf Scholz said that “there is no reason for this accumulation of troops on the borders” and that “the integrity of Ukraine’s territory is non-negotiable”, citing possible “great consequences” for Russia if the military onslaught actually takes place.
“We want to encourage Ukraine to continue this political operation at this time. However, it’s important to have direct conversations, which is why I’m here. We intend to have a dialogue with Russia on security,” said the chancellor.
“The United States has made clear the proposals for Russia and we await a response. If Russia violates Ukrainian sovereignty, we will know what to do,” Scholz said, referring to a phone call between US President Joe Biden and Vladimir Putin on Sunday (13).
At this Monday’s meeting, a loan of 150 million euros from Germany to Ukraine was also announced.
Zelensky stated that “it is very important that partners support [a Ucrânia] economically in defense areas”, and said that the Russian military buildup is an “unprecedented challenge for Europe and the world”.
*With information from Reuters and CNN
Source: CNN Brasil
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