Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has stated that his country has fulfilled all necessary requirements for NATO membership, but the final decision rests with the alliance’s member states. In an interview with British journalist Piers Morgan, Zelensky emphasized that both the previous and current U.S. administrations do not envision Ukraine as part of NATO at this time.
“It is not for us to decide. We have already done what we needed to do. We have expressed our readiness to join NATO and strengthen all allies. What more can we do? Nothing. Now the ball is in the court of our partners, the NATO countries,” Zelensky explained.
He further noted that discussions between NATO and Russia regarding any new agreements should involve Ukraine, particularly concerning its potential membership. “Putin talks a lot about Ukraine in NATO. Unfortunately, this does not depend on us,” Zelensky concluded.
Ukraine’s NATO Aspirations
Ukraine submitted its application for expedited NATO membership on September 30, 2022. Several countries, including the United States, have expressed opposition to Ukraine joining the alliance.
In late January 2026, Ukraine and NATO agreed on priorities for cooperation, which the Ukrainian Ministry of Defense reported would focus on enhancing air defense capabilities, developing systems such as Patriot, F-16, and HIMARS, and collaborating on technological advancements.
“Ukraine shares with its partners unique combat experience, real battlefield data, and technological solutions that are already effective,” the statement noted.
Ukrainian President Zelensky asserts that Ukraine has met NATO membership criteria, yet U.S. reluctance remains a barrier. Ongoing discussions with NATO and Russia should involve Ukraine in decisions affecting its future.