In his speech, Zelensky pointed to the Kursk offensive by Ukrainian forces into Russia – which took both Russia and Ukraine’s allies by surprise – as showing that “Putin does not have enough strength to hold on when we really apply pressure”.
He proposes military operations in Russia continue to avoid “buffer zones” being created in Ukraine.
Zelensky also said another point in his plan – an invitation to join Nato – would bolster Ukraine’s negotiating position, but suggested this would not mean immediate membership of the military alliance.
“Russia has used the geopolitical uncertainty caused by Ukraine not being in Nato,” he told the EU Council, saying that “an immediate invitation to Ukraine to join Nato would be decisive”.
He added: “Of course, membership would follow later.”
Allies have expressed support for Ukraine – but not yet endorsed Zelensky’s plan.
Nato’s new Secretary General Mark Rutte said it was a “strong signal”, but would only commit to Ukrainian Nato membership “in the future”.
Following Zelensky’s speech, EU Council President Charles Michel said providing more financial and military support to Ukraine was “urgent”.
