Zelensky Urges NATO to Take Direct Military Action in Ukraine Times Interview

During an extensive interview with The Times on Monday in Kyiv, President Volodymyr Zelensky called for increased support from the U.S. and Europe to defend Ukraine. He emphasized the necessity for NATO involvement in the conflict, proposing that NATO planes should intercept and destroy Russian missiles in Ukrainian airspace.

President Zelensky questioned the reluctance to shoot down Russian missiles, stating that it would be a defensive measure without being an attack on Russia. He stressed that this direct involvement of NATO nations in the conflict is essential and should not be an issue. He cited the assistance provided by the U.S. and Britain to Israel in intercepting drones and missiles from Iran as a similar example of international support.

Resistance to Direct NATO Involvement

Despite Zelensky’s call for direct NATO involvement, Western capitals have been hesitant to support such actions, fearing potential retaliation from Russia. Experts have warned that direct NATO involvement could provoke Russia to retaliate, leading to further escalation of the conflict.

President Zelensky also revealed that he had appealed to senior U.S. officials to authorize Ukraine to use U.S. missiles and other weaponry against military targets inside Russia. However, the U.S. has continued to oppose this tactic, providing Russia with a significant advantage in cross-border warfare and enabling assaults in Ukraine’s northeast.