During the "Ukraine. Year 2025" conference in Kyiv, Zelenskyy expressed his willingness to step down from the presidency under two conditions: to secure peace for Ukraine or to gain NATO membership for the country12. This unprecedented offer demonstrates Zelenskyy's commitment to his nation's well-being and security. The Ukrainian leader stated, "If you need me to leave this chair, I am ready to do that; and I also can exchange it for NATO membership for Ukraine"1. This bold proposal comes as Ukraine approaches the three-year mark since Russia's invasion, highlighting the complex diplomatic challenges the country faces in its pursuit of peace and international alliances34.

Zelenskyy's offer to resign comes against the backdrop of martial law in Ukraine, which has been in effect since Russia's invasion in 2022. This state of emergency has significantly impacted the country's political landscape, including the postponement of elections originally scheduled for 2024. Critics have falsely accused Zelenskyy of refusing to hold elections and becoming a dictator12. However, these claims ignore the reality of Ukraine's wartime situation and the legal constraints of martial law.

The continuation of martial law has been necessary due to ongoing Russian aggression, but it has also raised concerns about democratic processes in Ukraine. Zelenskyy's willingness to step down, whether for peace or NATO membership, demonstrates his commitment to Ukraine's long-term stability and security, rather than personal power34. This offer also serves as a rebuttal to accusations of authoritarianism, highlighting the complex challenges faced by Ukraine's leadership in balancing democratic ideals with wartime necessities.

Ukraine's path to NATO membership faces significant challenges, despite Zelenskyy's willingness to exchange his presidency for it. As of February 2025, 29 Allies and partners have signed bilateral security agreements with Ukraine, providing enduring security commitments1. However, full NATO membership remains elusive due to ongoing conflict with Russia and complex geopolitical considerations.

The prospect of Ukraine joining NATO has been a contentious issue, with Russia viewing it as a threat to its security interests. Zelenskyy's offer to resign in exchange for NATO membership underscores the importance Ukraine places on this alliance23. However, NATO's collective defense principle, outlined in Article 5, complicates the admission of a country actively engaged in conflict. This situation has led to discussions about alternative security arrangements, such as the deployment of European peacekeeping troops, with Zelenskyy suggesting that 100,000 troops would be needed to police a ceasefire in Ukraine4.

Recent surveys reveal a complex picture of public opinion regarding President Zelenskyy's leadership and his proposal to resign:

• 72% of Ukrainians oppose the resignation of General Valerii Zaluzhnyi, the commander-in-chief of the Armed Forces, indicating strong support for military leadership1.

• 69% of respondents trust Zelenskyy, according to a January survey by the Razumkov Center2.

• 69% believe Zelenskyy should remain in power until martial law ends, based on a February poll by the Kyiv International Institute of Sociology2.

• Only 15% support holding elections under current circumstances, while 10% want Zelenskyy to transfer power to the parliamentary Speaker2.

• Across Europe, 47% hold a positive opinion of Zelenskyy, while 32% view him negatively, making him both the most popular and most divisive leader among those surveyed3.

• Zelenskyy's approval ratings vary significantly by region, with highest support in Nordic countries (81% in Finland, 74% in Sweden) and the Iberian Peninsula3.

These figures suggest that while Zelenskyy maintains substantial domestic and international support, public opinion on his leadership and potential resignation is nuanced and varies across different demographics and regions.