In the midst of the ongoing stalemate in the Russia-Ukraine war, U.S. envoy Steve Witkoff dropped a bombshell this Sunday, stating that Russian President Vladimir Putin has for the first time agreed to allow the U.S. and European countries to provide Ukraine with security guarantees similar to “NATO Article 5,” as one of the key conditions for facilitating a ceasefire and ending the war.
Similar to NATO Clause: Securing “Collective Defense Shield” for Ukraine
Witkoff pointed out in an interview with CNN on Sunday: “We have achieved a key concession, allowing the U.S. to provide Ukraine with protection akin to NATO Article 5, which is one of the main reasons why Ukraine wishes to join NATO.” This statement is seen as a significant breakthrough. He emphasized, “This is the first time we have heard Russia willing to accept such a security framework.” Although Ukraine has not yet officially become a NATO member, this move indicates that if Russia were to attack Ukraine again in the future, the U.S. and Europe might view it as a provocation against the entire alliance and take necessary actions.
EU Stands in Support: “We Will Do Our Part”
Regarding this potential new security arrangement, the European Union also quickly expressed support. EU Commission President Ursula von der Leyen stated that she welcomed the provision of security guarantees for Ukraine and emphasized, “The European Union is ready to do our part of the responsibility.” While specific implementation details have not yet been disclosed, the EU’s public stance undoubtedly lends more credibility to this proposal and paves the way for a future collective Western security mechanism.
Trump and Putin’s Meeting in Alaska Reveals Diplomatic Progress
Witkoff’s remarks come after U.S. President Trump and Putin recently held a meeting in Alaska. This meeting took place against the backdrop of the ongoing Russia-Ukraine war, with the White House describing the talks as “constructive,” but so far, officials have not disclosed much specific information. Trump had publicly called for a ceasefire several times before meeting with Putin, emphasizing the “urgent need for a lasting ceasefire agreement.” Witkoff’s comments may be one of the outcomes of this diplomatic maneuver, representing the first instance of Russia somewhat loosening its stance against Western military intervention.
Although this “NATO-like protection mechanism” has not yet been officially activated, Russia’s willingness to accept this proposal is undoubtedly a significant breakthrough in recent Ukrainian diplomatic progress. If the related mechanisms can take shape, it will provide critical protection for Ukraine, which has long suffered from the ravages of war, and may also become a crucial turning point in promoting a ceasefire and ultimately negotiating peace.
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