Zelensky Questions NATO’s Security Guarantee for Ukraine, Praises Trump’s Shift on Russia

New York — Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky expressed doubts on Wednesday about NATO’s ability to guarantee Ukraine’s security, warning that even membership in the alliance may not ensure protection. Speaking at the United Nations General Assembly, Zelensky said, “Because international institutions are too weak, this madness continues. Even being part of the long-standing military alliance doesn’t automatically mean you are safe.”

However, Zelensky praised former US President Donald Trump following their recent meeting, highlighting the importance of strong global leadership. “We had a good meeting with President Trump, and I also spoke with many other strong leaders, and together, we can change a lot,” Zelensky said. He welcomed Trump’s surprising shift, noting the US leader’s recent comments suggesting Russia can be defeated and Ukraine could regain all lost territories — a stark change from his previous positions.

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Meanwhile, US Secretary of State Marco Rubio met with Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov on the sidelines of the UN General Assembly, although details of their talks remain undisclosed.

Zelensky also issued a warning about Moldova, urging Europe not to lose the strategically important country to Russian influence as it risks joining Belarus and Georgia under Moscow’s orbit. Moldova is set to hold elections this weekend amid a surge of Russian-linked disinformation campaigns targeting pro-European leaders.

Highlighting the evolving nature of warfare, Zelensky raised concerns over autonomous drones and AI-driven weapons, calling the current arms race “the most destructive in human history.” He emphasized that true security lies in “friends and weapons,” noting Ukraine’s development of long-range drones as critical to defending its sovereignty.

“We don’t have the big fat missiles dictators love to show off in parades, but we do have drones that can fly up to 2,000, 3,000 kilometers,” Zelensky said. “We had no choice but to build them to protect our right to life.”

The Ukrainian leader’s remarks come amid ongoing diplomatic efforts during the UN’s high-profile meeting week, as Ukraine seeks sustained international support against Russian aggression.