In a significant development, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has proposed an end to the intensive phase of the ongoing war in Ukraine, conditioned on an offer of NATO membership for his country.

According to Sky News, in a notable interview, President Zelenskyy articulated a strategy involving NATO protection for Ukraine in exchange for a ceasefire.

During his conversation with Sky News's chief correspondent Stuart Ramsay, Zelenskyy emphasized that the offer to join NATO, which would encompass currently free areas of Ukraine, could potentially halt what he referred to as the "hot phase" of the conflict.

The NATO membership would initially exclude the eastern parts of Ukraine presently occupied by Russian forces, areas which Zelenskyy hopes to reclaim through diplomatic channels later on.

The urgency of this arrangement arises from Zelenskyy’s concern over further encroachments by Russian President Vladimir Putin. «If we want to stop the hot phase of the war, we need to take under the NATO umbrella the territory of Ukraine that we have under our control,» the Ukrainian leader stated.

Zelenskyy also spoke of his recent interactions with U.S. President-elect Donald Trump, describing an encouraging and constructive meeting in New York this past September.

Zelenskyy is seeking direct dialogue with President Trump to circumvent any interference by others that might harm their burgeoning cooperation. «I want to work with him directly because there are different voices from people around him. And that's why we need not to [allow] anybody around to destroy our communication,» he expressed.

Strong Ukrainian Stance Against Russian Claims

The ongoing conflict, ignited by Russian military activities, has resulted in Russia controlling roughly a fifth of Ukrainian territory, though these annexations are not internationally recognized.

Zelenskyy has been vocal in opposing any notions that suggest relinquishing the occupied Ukrainian lands permanently. His strong stance reflects an unyielding adherence to the national integrity and sovereignty of Ukraine amid pressing adversities.

The conversation between Zelenskyy and Trump has laid the groundwork for future diplomatic collaboration, aiming to bolster Ukraine's resilience against ongoing Russian aggression. "We had a conversation. It was very warm, good, constructive... It was a very good meeting and it was an important first step – now we have to prepare some meetings." Zelenskyy recalled about their dialogue.

Immediate Protective Measures Sought

With ongoing Russian advancements in eastern Ukraine despite international opposition, Zelenskyy has reiterated the critical need for immediate NATO intervention.

This intervention, as per Zelenskyy, should cover the parts of Ukraine that remain under the control of Kyiv to prevent any further loss of territory to Russian forces. His appeal for protection underlines the severity of the threat perceived on the ground.

In summary, the unfolding discourse between the Ukrainian leadership, the United States, and NATO represents a critical juncture for Ukraine. The nation remains steadfast in not ceding any territory acknowledged as its own and seeks the West's immediate involvement to avert further destabilization.

These discussions are pivotal not only for the future of Ukraine but also for the broader geopolitical stability in the region.