Zelenskyy’s Unconventional Approach To Reclaiming Lost Ukrainian Lands

Ukrainian flag waving against a blue sky.

President Volodymyr Zelenskyy calls for a nuanced diplomatic strategy to reclaim Ukrainian territories occupied by Russia while strengthening military capacity.

At a Glance

Zelenskyy emphasizes the importance of NATO membership for all of Ukraine.
NATO’s Article 5 might not cover all Ukrainian territories amid conflict.
Diplomatic means are seen as viable for reclaiming occupied territories.
Zelenskyy accuses Russia of using foreign soldiers as “cannon fodder.”

Reclaiming Territories through Diplomacy

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy urges diplomatic negotiations as part of Ukraine’s comprehensive plan to reclaim territories from Russian occupation. In an interview with Kyodo News, he highlighted that while military strength is crucial, diplomacy remains vital for territorial reintegration. Zelenskyy criticized Russian President Vladimir Putin for allegedly deploying North Korean soldiers to reinforce Russia’s military position in Ukraine.

Zelenskyy also discussed NATO membership with European leaders, making it clear that Ukraine’s accession should apply to its entire territory. This signals Ukraine’s intention to uphold its sovereignty while seeking international support. Diplomatic paths, according to Zelenskyy, should ideally reclaim occupied areas without direct confrontation.

We must also not forget about our communities currently in temporarily occupied territories. Ukraine needs readiness at all levels to restore control over all its territory at the right time and through the right measures, and also bring people back. For this, Ukraine needs the…

— Volodymyr Zelenskyy / Володимир Зеленський (@ZelenskyyUa) November 19, 2024

Challenges with NATO Membership

During discussions, Zelenskyy acknowledged NATO’s Article 5 may not be enforceable across all territories due to risks associated with wartime. This complicates Ukraine’s aspirations for defense under NATO’s umbrella, prompting the need for dialogue and strategic partnerships.

“However, we understand that Article 5 of the North Atlantic Treaty, which applies when you are a NATO member, may not cover the entirety of Ukraine during wartime, as member countries are cautious about the risks of being drawn into the conflict,” said President Zelenskyy.

Zelenskyy stressed that international support remains insufficient, pressing for expedited NATO talks. As Ukraine encounters resistance in the east, the president remains committed to safeguarding the country’s internationally recognized borders.

EXCLUSIVE: Zelenskyy says Ukraine wants to retake occupied land by diplomacy

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy says his country is seeking an early end to the war with Russia and the return of part of its territory by Moscow through diplomacy after Kyiv's NATO membership…

— Kyodo News | Japan (@kyodo_english) December 2, 2024

Focus on Diplomatic Solutions

The approach combines fortifying defense capabilities with diplomatic efforts to achieve peace and reintegration. Zelenskyy expressed readiness for a ceasefire if Ukrainian territories could benefit from NATO protection, allowing diplomacy to lead the way for returning occupied regions under Ukraine’s control.

Zelenskyy also said, “If we want to stop the hot phase of the war, we need to take under the NATO umbrella the territory of Ukraine that we have under our control. We need to do it fast. And then on the [occupied] territory of Ukraine, Ukraine can get them back in a diplomatic way.”

Zelenskyy also expressed a desire to engage directly with U.S. President-elect Donald Trump to ensure robust western support for Ukraine. As he condemns Russia’s actions, the president remains hopeful that diplomatic channels will pave the way for future peace and reintegration.