Germany's Scholz throws cold water on Zelenskyy's Nato bid, says Ukraine can't join now

German Chancellor Olaf Scholz on Thursday (October 24) dismissed Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy’s push for Ukraine to immediately join the North Atlantic Treaty Organisation (Nato).

“It is important to realise that a country at war absolutely cannot become a member of Nato,” Scholz told German broadcaster ZDF. “Everyone knows that; there is no disagreement on this subject.”

Germany’s apprehension

While Nato has expressed long-term support for Ukraine’s membership, Scholz said no new decisions were necessary at this point.

The German chancellor also reaffirmed Germany’s commitment to avoiding escalation of the conflict. To that end, he warned that the Russia-Ukraine war must not evolve into a direct war between Nato and Russia.

More from World

Nepal's new PM pays homage to people died during the Gen Z protest in her first national address This Week in Explainers: How recovering from Gen-Z protests is a Himalayan task for Nepal

No takers for Zelenskyy’s ‘Victory Plan’

The timing of these comments is not ideal for Zelenskyy. The comedian-turned-politician has already presented his “Victory Plan” to Western allies as his country’s war with Russia grinds through its third year.

The plan, which included a call for an “immediate” invitation for Ukraine to join the US-led defence alliance, have yet to receive unanimous backing from Nato members.

Threats galore

In fact, even the support Nato is offering to Ukraine at the moment is on precarious ground due to a tight race for the seat of US president. Donald Trump, the Republican candidate, has already spoken about ending the war by cutting off the aid Ukraine is receiving.

Impact Shorts

More Shorts

‘The cries of this widow will echo’: In first public remarks, Erika Kirk warns Charlie’s killers they’ve ‘unleashed a fire’

Trump urges Nato to back sanctions on Russia, calls for 50–100% tariffs on China

Scholz also clearly conveyed his opposition to providing Ukraine with long-range Taurus missiles, which Kyiv has long requested to strike targets deep inside Russian territory.

The German leader’s stance comes as Zelenskyy continues his diplomatic push for more military assistance, including lifting restrictions on the use of long-range weapons provided by Western allies.

With inputs from agencies