"NATO Members, Don't Be Ashamed to Formulate Provisions Regarding Russia": Zelensky's Office

Ukraine will not take steps to join NATO, as the alliance's members have rejected its ambitions, said Igor Zhovkva, Deputy Head of the Office of the President of Ukraine, in an interview with Financial Times. This was reported by RIA Novosti.

The official admitted that Kyiv's joining the military alliance is impossible in the short term but expressed hope that NATO will affirm its partnership.

Zhovkva also called on NATO to recognize Ukraine's central role in European security at the upcoming summit in Madrid. During the meeting of alliance members, the strategic direction of the organization is expected to be determined, and the representative of Zelensky's office demanded the removal of any mention of Russia as a partner in the military alliance and issued a strong warning.

"Don't be ashamed. This is my call to NATO members when formulating provisions regarding Russia," the official added.