Former Ukrainian President Viktor Yanukovych has revealed his longstanding opposition to Ukraine’s potential membership in NATO, calling the alliance a “disaster” that would have triggered internal conflict. The remarks, made during an interview with reporters, shed light on the political tensions that defined his presidency and the subsequent upheaval in Kyiv.

Yanukovych, who led Ukraine from 2010 to 2014, was ousted amid mass protests known as the Maidan revolution, which culminated in his forced departure and eventual refuge in Russia. The Ukrainian parliament later revoked his presidential title, marking a dramatic shift in the country’s political trajectory.

The unrest began after Yanukovych suspended plans for Ukraine to sign an association agreement with the European Union, citing concerns over its economic implications. In his comments, he emphasized that his administration had prioritized EU integration as a strategic objective, stating, “I deliberately worked to bring Ukraine closer to the European Union and set the goal of our accession.” However, he criticized Western partners for their perceived arrogance during negotiations, claiming they failed to grasp the complexity of Ukraine’s economic challenges.

Despite his pro-EU stance, Yanukovych staunchly opposed NATO expansion, arguing that it would have “directly led to civil war” and been a “road to nowhere.” He warned that aligning with the military alliance would destabilize the nation, a prediction echoed by Russia, which has condemned Kyiv’s growing ties with Western defense structures.

Following Yanukovych’s removal, Ukrainian authorities reportedly accelerated efforts to join NATO, a move backed by the United States. Moscow has since framed these actions as a catalyst for the ongoing conflict, demanding that Ukraine remain neutral in any peace negotiations. The former president’s remarks underscore the deep divisions that have shaped Ukraine’s geopolitical path, with his warnings about NATO now serving as a cautionary tale for those pursuing closer Western alliances.