Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky recently unveiled a “Victory Plan” in front of the Ukrainian parliament aimed at ending Russia’s 32-month invasion. Given the ongoing strain on Ukraine’s military and the challenges posed by advancing Russian forces, Zelensky called for unity among Ukrainians during this critical time.
According to a report from Reuters, as winter approaches and power shortages loom, Zelensky presented this comprehensive plan—dependent on the support of allies—which outlines five key points. Among these is an unconditional invitation for Ukraine to join NATO, as well as the deployment of non-nuclear deterrent forces to counter Russian aggression.
During his address to members of parliament and government officials, Zelensky emphasized, “We must work with our partners to change the situation and bring this war to an end. Regardless of what President Putin wants, we all need to alter the circumstances to force Russia into peace.”
Here are the five main points of the “Victory Plan” as summarized by Reuters:
1. **Invitations for NATO Membership**
Zelensky asserted that Ukraine must be given an unconditional invitation to join NATO without delay. He noted, “We understand that obtaining NATO membership is a future prospect, not an immediate reality. However, this will make Putin realize that his geopolitical calculations will ultimately fail.”
2. **Strengthening Defensive Capabilities**
He stated that Ukraine’s self-defense capabilities must be “irreversibly strengthened.” This includes various proposals for further arming Ukraine, bolstering its defense industry, enhancing air defense capabilities, lifting restrictions on weapon use, and continuing military operations within Russia.
3. **Deterrence by Allies**
Zelensky urged Western allies to deter further Russian aggression by demonstrating the consequences of such actions. He remarked, “Ukraine proposes a comprehensive non-nuclear strategy to deter any military threat from Russia.” This aspect includes a confidential supplement, though specific details of the proposed deterrence strategy were not disclosed.
4. **Strategic Economic Potential**
The President proposed that Ukraine sign agreements with the U.S., the European Union, and other unspecified allies to initiate joint investments aimed at developing Ukraine’s natural resources, which he values in the trillions of dollars. “This particularly includes uranium, titanium, lithium, graphite, and other strategically valuable resources. In the global competition, these resources can strengthen Ukraine and the democratic world, rather than bolstering Russia and its allies.”
5. **Enhancing NATO through Ukraine**
Zelensky also suggested that post-war, Ukraine’s armed forces could enhance NATO’s security by replacing some U.S. troops currently stationed in Europe.
Zelensky’s call for a united front during these challenging times underscores his commitment to ensuring Ukraine’s sovereignty and security while seeking the support of international allies.