Nato membership for Ukraine: a path to peace or prolonged conflict?

International law and precedents

Finally, the legal implications of NATO membership for Ukraine are worth noting. International law already has mechanisms to address territorial disputes, but NATO's intervention in such disputes could challenge existing frameworks. The 1997 NATO-Russia Founding Act, which outlines the partnership between the alliance and Russia, is one example of the complexities NATO faces in any potential move. Similarly, the Budapest Memorandum of 1994, which assured Ukraine's territorial integrity in exchange for its denuclearization, raises questions about how such assurances align with NATO's military and political commitments.

Conclusion: a balanced path forward

Zelenskyy's proposal for NATO membership is an intriguing option that could de-escalate the conflict in the short term. However, it also risks rewarding territorial aggression, setting a dangerous precedent for future conflicts. The international community must weigh the immediate benefits of ending active hostilities against the long-term consequences for global security norms.

To chart a viable path forward, a balanced approach is needed-one that combines NATO's security assurances with a comprehensive peace strategy. This includes not just military defense but also a sustained diplomatic effort to address the underlying causes of the war and ensure a just, lasting peace for Ukraine. The coming months will be critical in determining whether this new proposal can offer a genuine path to peace or whether it will simply prolong the conflict in a different form. Whatever path is chosen, the stakes for Ukraine, Europe, and the international order could not be higher.