Zelenskyy's Big Offer: Peace or NATO, But at What Cost?

Ukraine's President Volodymyr Zelenskyy recently made a bold statement. He said he'd step down if it meant peace for Ukraine or if Ukraine could join NATO. This came up during a chat with reporters in Kyiv. Zelenskyy made it clear that he's focused on keeping Ukraine safe right now, not in the distant future. He doesn't plan to stay in power for a long time. This offer comes at a tense time. There's been a lot of back-and-forth between Zelenskyy and former U. S. President Donald Trump. Trump recently said some things that didn't sit well with Zelenskyy. Trump suggested that Zelenskyy was responsible for starting the war in Ukraine. This is not true. Russia invaded Ukraine in 2022, which is where the current conflict started. Zelenskyy didn't hold back. He called out Trump for spreading false information and pushing ideas that align with Russia's interests. Trump, in return, had some harsh words for Zelenskyy, calling him a "dictator" and a "modestly successful comedian. " Zelenskyy, however, kept his cool. He said he wants Trump on his side, despite the harsh words. When asked about Trump's comments, Zelenskyy stayed calm. He said he doesn't have time for emotions right now. He's focused on what's best for Ukraine. He reminded everyone that he was elected by 73% of Ukrainian people. He also mentioned that after the martial law, there will be elections. He believes what Ukrainians think about him is more important than what Trump says. This all comes as the U. S. and Russia are talking again at a higher level. Some top officials from Trump's administration, including Secretary of State Marco Rubio, met with Russian officials in Saudi Arabia. Trump has said he wants to start peace talks to end the war in Ukraine. He even said that Zelenskyy doesn't need to be at these talks. He thinks Zelenskyy hasn't done much to help the situation. Earlier this month, Zelenskyy had a different view. He said he wouldn't accept any peace deal if Ukraine wasn't at the negotiating table. He made it clear that this is Ukraine's war and Ukraine's losses. He wants to be part of the solution.