Zelensky demands NATO action now—can Ukraine turn the tide against Russia?

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has laid out a comprehensive “victory plan” designed to rally Western allies and push back Russian aggression. The plan was revealed during his European tour, where he met with NATO and EU leaders, emphasizing that immediate, concrete actions are required to achieve Ukraine’s military and diplomatic objectives.

Zelensky’s victory plan: A blueprint for NATO and military aid

The heart of Zelensky’s victory plan involves seeking an accelerated path for Ukraine’s NATO membership, a move he considers essential for regional stability. Zelensky has repeatedly stressed the importance of Ukraine joining NATO to ensure long-term security against Russian aggression. The plan calls for significant enhancements in Ukraine’s defense capabilities, focusing on obtaining long-range missile systems from Western allies, which he believes are crucial for targeting Russian infrastructure deep within its territory.

He highlighted that, despite some reluctance from allies, this strategic shift is necessary to weaken Russia’s operational capabilities. According to sources, NATO Secretary-General Mark Rutte has expressed support for Zelensky’s proposal, urging member states to reconsider their hesitations about expanding military aid, including authorizing strikes inside Russia.

Economic recovery and international support

Zelensky’s plan also includes a strong emphasis on international economic aid and rebuilding efforts. Acknowledging the devastating toll of the war, he has secured commitments from the United States and the Group of Seven (G7) nations for significant reconstruction assistance. Recent agreements with over 30 countries aim to create a robust framework for economic recovery, including initiatives to rebuild critical infrastructure such as Ukraine’s energy grid, which has been repeatedly targeted by Russian forces.

In his appeal to Western leaders, Zelensky framed the plan as a “bridge” to peace, detailing that without such international cooperation and robust economic sanctions against Russia, the possibility of a prolonged conflict remains high. He warned that a lack of immediate action could lead to further destabilization, with potential new offensives from Russia aimed at southern Ukraine within the next few years.

Expert perspectives: The urgency behind the plan

Military experts have noted the urgent need for the West to respond to Zelensky’s call. Oleksandr Kovalenko, a military analyst at Kyiv’s Information Resistance think tank, remarked that if Ukraine’s allies do not fully support Zelensky’s strategy, Ukraine could face severe setbacks, potentially losing strategic territories by the year’s end. Kovalenko stressed that, as Russian arms production intensifies, Ukraine’s access to advanced weaponry is vital for maintaining its defense lines and avoiding a protracted war.

Other Ukrainian officials have also voiced concerns about alternative peace proposals from countries like China and Brazil, arguing that these would likely result in a temporary pause rather than a lasting resolution. They believe that any agreement that does not include crippling Russia’s military potential would merely delay further conflict.