The Office of the President denies that many NATO countries are against Ukraine’s membership in the Alliance

The Office of the President of Ukraine has denied claims that many NATO countries are opposed to inviting Ukraine into the Alliance, responding to a recent report by “Politico”, which cited sources saying that key opponents include Germany and the United States.

The report also listed Hungary, Slovakia, Belgium, Slovenia, and Spain as not supporting the invitation.

According to Serhiy Nykyforov, spokesperson for the Ukrainian presidential office, Ukraine is actively working to persuade any countries hesitant about the invitation. He suggested that rumors of a lack of support for Ukraine’s efforts are being spread by those who want to create a false impression that Ukraine’s NATO membership bid lacks broad backing. In reality, he emphasized, the idea of inviting Ukraine is supported by the vast majority of NATO members, with ongoing efforts to advocate for the remainder.

“An invitation [to NATO] is the first point in President Zelensky’s victory plan and the surest path to a just and lasting peace. Volodymyr Zelensky has presented the plan to international partners, the Ukrainian parliament, the media, and civil society, and is consolidating efforts to bring Ukraine closer to NATO membership,” Nykyforov added.

This response came after “Politico” reported that seven NATO member states were against Ukraine’s accession. Zelensky has previously stated that instead of pursuing nuclear weapons, Ukraine seeks NATO membership, a key element of his “victory plan.”

Meanwhile, media reports from Washington suggest skepticism toward Zelensky’s plan. U.S. officials reportedly believe that the “victory plan” is doomed to fail, as they are concerned it may escalate the conflict in an attempt to pressure Russia into negotiations under more favorable conditions for Ukraine.