Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has proposed a victory plan that includes seeking assistance from Ukraine’s western allies, particularly NATO, in an effort to secure peace for the country. The plan involves bringing Ukraine into NATO, replacing U.S. troops with Ukrainian troops at outposts throughout Europe, and gaining access to nuclear weapons if necessary. Zelenskyy’s request is in response to the ongoing conflict with Russia, with Putin refusing to engage in peace talks until Ukraine stops pursuing NATO membership. The plan also involves Ukraine taking charge of European security and potentially kicking out U.S. forces in favor of Ukrainian units.
The dire need for fresh recruits in the Ukrainian military has led to recruitment efforts targeting individuals aged 25 to 60, who are required by law to join the forces. Zelenskyy has presented his plan to NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte, who did not commit to pushing member nations to extend an invitation to Ukraine. Russia’s opposition to Ukraine joining NATO remains a concern, with Putin warning of potential war if Ukraine is granted access to long-range weapons that could target Russia. Zelenskyy continues to appeal to the European Union for financial aid, with Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orbán expressing concern over the plan and calling for a shift towards peace negotiations.
Zelenskyy is also seeking the unrestricted use of U.S. long-range weapons, including ATACMS missiles, to target Russia and end the war. The Biden administration has been hesitant to lift the ban on these weapons, fearing escalation with Russia. Zelenskyy believes that attacks on Russian territory have exposed Putin’s weaknesses and that a shift in strategy could lead to the end of the conflict. The victory plan, presented to the Ukrainian parliament and the European Council, includes a five-point strategy aimed at securing peace and economic development through strategic alliances with the EU and the U.S.
Some Ukrainian politicians have criticized Zelenskyy’s plan, describing it as unrealistic and reliant on the assistance of external partners without a clear path to implementation. The plan has been viewed as a fantasy by some, while others believe in the potential success of the strategy if diplomatic efforts are effective and partners are willing to support Ukraine. Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov dismissed the plan as “ephemeral” and called for Kyiv to reassess its policies. Despite the differing opinions on the plan, Zelenskyy remains committed to pursuing a path towards peace and security for Ukraine, advocating for the use of strategic deterrence and economic partnerships to achieve these goals.
