The President of Ukraine, Volodymyr Zelensky, stated that if the United States is not prepared to assist Ukraine in joining NATO, Kyiv should receive alternative security guarantees, including access to nuclear weapons.
He made this remark during an interview with British journalist Piers Morgan.
Zelensky acknowledged that the process of Ukraine's accession to the Alliance could take years or even decades. In this context, he emphasized the need for mechanisms that could ensure the country's security during this period.
“What support package? What missiles? Will they provide us with nuclear weapons? If not, then let them give us something else,” said the head of state.
He also pointed out that while Western partners may supply Ukraine with missiles to deter Russia, their effectiveness against Russian nuclear strikes cannot be guaranteed.
“So, return our nuclear weapons, provide modern missile systems, help finance a million-strong army, and deploy your contingents in regions of Ukraine to ensure stability,” the president added.
Zelensky further stated that if Russia justified its invasion by fearing Ukraine's NATO membership, then since the country is still not part of the Alliance, Moscow should completely withdraw its troops.
“He (Putin – ed.) invaded because he was afraid we would become NATO members. Fine, we are not in NATO. So get out of our land,” the president concluded.