Ukraine-NATO Relations
Why did President Zelenskyy postpone his scheduled visit to Saudi Arabia?
According to Kurt Volker, former US Ambassador to NATO, Zelenskyy postponed his visit to Saudi Arabia to avoid creating the appearance of direct Ukrainian involvement in ongoing US-Russia diplomatic discussions. This decision reflects Ukraine's strategic need to maintain a distinct position and sovereignty in international relations. The postponement comes amid complex diplomatic efforts where Ukraine aims to prevent being perceived as deeply embedded in US diplomatic initiatives. This helps Ukraine preserve its independent standing while navigating the geopolitical pressures surrounding the conflict.
Watch clip answer (00:19m)
Al Jazeera English
03:54 - 04:13
How does the current diplomatic approach with Russia compare to previous administrations' efforts?
Ambassador Volker suggests that current diplomatic efforts may be overemphasizing minimal progress. During both the Obama administration and when he served as special representative, they maintained a comprehensive approach involving consultations with Ukraine, European Union, NATO, and bilateral meetings with Russia as part of an ongoing process. Volker indicates that the Trump administration is continuing this same diplomatic framework, suggesting continuity in the diplomatic approach despite possible differences in framing or public presentation. His assessment implies that effective diplomacy requires maintaining these established channels of communication with all relevant stakeholders.
Watch clip answer (00:25m)
Al Jazeera English
00:32 - 00:57
What is a possible outcome of the peace talks regarding the Ukraine-Russia conflict?
According to Kurt Volker, former US Ambassador to NATO, one possible scenario is that negotiations might result in a ceasefire without a comprehensive agreement. In this situation, the fighting would stop temporarily, but no further substantive agreement would be reached between the parties. Volker suggests that if this occurs, the international community would need to establish deterrence mechanisms to prevent future Russian aggression. This highlights the diplomatic challenges in securing a lasting peace agreement, given Russia's maximalist objectives and the complex nature of international negotiations around the Ukraine conflict.
Watch clip answer (00:12m)Al Jazeera English
02:01 - 02:13
How will the US address concerns from EU countries who feel they've been sidelined in consultations about Ukraine?
According to Kurt Volker, former US Ambassador to NATO, these concerns from EU countries are not accurate. He explains that the US has been actively engaging with European partners through multiple channels, including NATO consultations, bilateral discussions, and meetings in various capitals. Volker's response indicates that rather than sidelining European allies, the US has maintained ongoing diplomatic communications regarding Ukraine through various established diplomatic mechanisms. His statement counters the perception that European nations have been excluded from important talks on the Ukraine situation.
Watch clip answer (00:28m)Al Jazeera English
02:14 - 02:42
Would a lasting war settlement include trying to bring Ukraine closer to NATO?
According to Kurt Volker, former US Ambassador to NATO, the Trump administration has clearly stated that Ukraine's path to NATO membership will not be part of any settlement with Russia. Volker affirms this position as the correct approach, explaining that a settlement inherently implies an agreement with Russia, who would never consent to Ukraine joining NATO. This stance recognizes the practical reality of negotiating with Russia while maintaining respect for Ukrainian sovereignty. The decision keeps NATO membership as a separate issue from the immediate conflict resolution process.
Watch clip answer (00:28m)Al Jazeera English
03:08 - 03:36
Is it possible to reach an agreement with Russia regarding Ukraine?
According to Kurt Volker, former US Ambassador to NATO, while a ceasefire might be possible, he remains very skeptical about reaching any meaningful agreement with Russia. This skepticism stems from Russia's maximalist objectives of eliminating Ukraine as a sovereign state. Volker emphasizes that Russia's fundamental goal of undermining Ukraine's sovereignty creates an insurmountable obstacle to genuine agreement, as no party would consent to the elimination of Ukraine's status as an independent nation. This fundamental contradiction in objectives makes substantive diplomatic progress extremely challenging.
Watch clip answer (00:14m)Al Jazeera English
01:42 - 01:56