Zelensky Reveals Plan B if Ukraine Excluded from NATO

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has unveiled a contingency plan if Ukraine is denied NATO membership. In an interview with The Economist, Zelensky emphasized the need to significantly strengthen Ukraine’s military, including doubling its armed forces to match Russia’s capabilities.

Zelensky highlighted that security guarantees for Ukraine now hinge on U.S. President Donald Trump’s decisions. He warned that negotiating with Russia without robust guarantees would be perilous. “If Ukraine isn’t in NATO, it means Ukraine will build NATO on its territory,” he stated, underscoring the need for advanced weapons and financial support.

The Ukrainian leader stressed the importance of a self-reliant military, stating, “We don’t need any army in the world. We need our own army, but we have to double it.” To achieve this, Zelensky called for European funding and U.S. military aid, including long-range missiles and Patriot air defense systems.

This announcement comes amid ongoing tensions with Russia and uncertainty over Ukraine’s NATO aspirations. Zelensky’s Plan B underscores Ukraine’s determination to defend its sovereignty, with or without NATO membership.