In a significant diplomatic move, the United States has laid out a proposal for security guarantees for Ukraine that is reminiscent of NATO’s collective defense clause but distinct in its framework. This development was revealed during a telephone conversation involving US President Donald Trump, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky, and several European leaders, following Trump’s recent summit with Russian President Vladimir Putin.
According to a diplomatic source, who spoke to AFP on the condition of anonymity, the US suggested a “non-NATO Article 5 type guarantee” aimed at bolstering Ukraine’s security amidst ongoing tensions with Russia. This proposal was confirmed by Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni, who noted that it reflects a long-standing push for a collective security clause. Such a clause would enable Ukraine to receive support from its partners, including the US, should it face further aggression.
Meloni emphasized that the response to any potential threat would not necessarily escalate to military intervention. While NATO’s Article 5 allows for the use of force, she pointed out that it is not the only available option. This nuanced approach aims to provide reassurance to Ukraine while navigating the complex geopolitical landscape marked by Russian opposition to NATO’s expansion.
Kyiv has expressed aspirations to join NATO, a goal that has been a contentious issue and cited by Russia as one of the justifications for its military actions in Ukraine. Trump’s administration has consistently opposed Ukraine’s accession to the alliance, creating a challenging environment for any security arrangements.
During the call, the discussion on this joint security proposal was articulated both in a one-on-one conversation between Trump and Zelensky and reiterated during the multilateral call with European leaders. However, challenges remain, as noted by a second source who highlighted uncertainties regarding the implementation of such guarantees and the likelihood of Putin’s agreement to a framework that seems counter to his stance against NATO.
While Meloni’s remarks did not explicitly indicate whether this proposal had been broached with Putin, the conversation lays the groundwork for further discussions. Zelensky is scheduled to visit Washington to engage in talks with Trump, focusing on the potential format of a summit involving Trump, Putin, and himself, as well as the roles of Kyiv’s European allies in ongoing peace talks and security considerations. This dialogue indicates a proactive effort to address the complex dynamics of the region and bolster Ukraine’s security positioning in light of Russian aggression.
