Invitation to NATO before the end of the war and more weapons: Zelensky presented his “victory plan” to the Verkhovna Rada

An extraordinary session of the Verkhovna Rada of Ukraine took place, during which President Volodymyr Zelensky presented his so-called “Victory Plan.”

The event was broadcast on the president’s social media channels.

Zelensky told parliament members that “victory has become an uncomfortable word for some” and that the “Victory Plan” would serve as a “bridge to the peace summit.” He stated that the plan could lead to the end of the war “no later than 2025.”

The key points of the plan are as follows:

1. Ukraine’s invitation to NATO before the war ends.
2. Continuation of operations on Russian territory and lifting restrictions on strikes within Russia. This includes joint efforts with partners to shoot down Russian aircraft, expand the use of Ukrainian drones and missiles, and gain access to partner intelligence.
3. Deployment of a “non-nuclear deterrent package” on Ukrainian territory.
4. Strengthening Ukraine’s strategic economic potential and intensifying sanctions against Russia.
5. Post-war plans for Ukrainian military forces to contribute to NATO and European defense, potentially replacing U.S. military contingents in Europe.

Zelensky noted that the second, third, and fourth points include confidential appendices, which have been shared with Ukraine’s partners.

In the plan, Zelensky also stated that Ukraine had proposed a “peace formula” two years ago and had conducted supposedly “successful” summits, but Russia “continues to avoid honest diplomacy and issues ultimatums.” Zelensky stressed that Russia must be defeated and argued that Western partners need to act now, or Russia could “significantly strengthen next year.” Meanwhile, the Ukrainian Armed Forces “guarantee that none of Russia’s ultimatums hold any weight.”

The somewhat disjointed nature of this long-promised “Victory Plan” might suggest growing anxiety within Zelensky’s administration.

It is worth noting that Zelensky’s peace plan has been criticized by the U.S. Previously, U.S. officials stated that Zelensky’s “victory plan” would not bring peace to Ukraine.