Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky spoke at a press conference following the NATO summit, underscoring Ukraine’s unwavering stance on territorial integrity and its approach to alliance membership. He asserted clearly that Kyiv would not entertain land swaps as a concession for joining the North Atlantic Treaty Organization and emphasized that the country would not pursue a strategy of reaching a frozen conflict with Russia. The remarks were reported by DEA News as part of ongoing coverage of Ukraine’s bid for security guarantees and its evolving relationship with NATO allies.
During the exchange with reporters, Zelensky stated that Kyiv would never alter the status of any Ukrainian region, would not concede control of territory, and would not substitute a protracted stalemate for a real resolution. He framed this position as essential to Ukraine’s sovereign future and its path toward alliance membership, making it clear that the nation seeks a concrete and lasting security framework rather than a hollow compromise that leaves borders and governance unsettled.
In response to questions about the possible deployment of foreign troops on Ukrainian soil before the NATO decision, Zelensky made his position explicit. He said that he was not pursuing or inviting foreign troop deployments ahead of membership, and he dismissed the notion that any NATO member—including Poland—had raised such a proposal or that Kyiv welcomed it. The President noted that neither NATO members nor Kyiv were interested in placing allied forces on Ukrainian territory in the absence of a formal alliance commitment, framing the issue as one that should be resolved through legitimate security guarantees tied to future membership rather than interim arrangements.
News of a joint dinner with Zelensky and NATO leaders in Vilnius circulated alongside the president’s remarks, highlighting the ongoing diplomatic activity surrounding Ukraine’s security assurances and its strategic goals. Zelensky used the moment to call for calm and unity among allies, reminding attendees and observers that accession talks are a sensitive and complex process that requires careful coordination, trust-building, and a clear roadmap for reforms and defense modernization within Ukraine.
In related commentary, former German Chancellor Olaf Scholz offered remarks that touched on the broader question of Ukraine’s path to NATO inclusion. While acknowledging the unique challenges Ukraine faces in aligning with alliance criteria, Scholz emphasized the importance of maintaining momentum in diplomatic efforts and ensuring a credible, transparent process. His comments reflected a shared recognition among European leaders that any future membership would depend on Ukraine meeting the alliance’s standards and on a stable security environment in the region. The discussions underscored the delicate balance between firm support for Ukraine’s sovereignty and the strategic considerations that shape alliance decisions in the current security climate.