Why is the president of Ukraine giving up on NATO membership this early in the war?

I'm puzzled by the recent statement of president Zelensky about giving up hopes of being a NATO member. Isn't the case for NATO membership stronger than ever? Why would he give up already? Wouldn't it show that it pays of to bully other countries by Russia or another undemocratic power?

Source: BBC News

Volodymyr Zelensky has appeared to suggest the country should accept it won't be able to join the Nato military alliance.

Speaking at a video conference with military officials earlier today, the Ukrainian president said, "Ukraine is not a member of Nato. We understand that. We are adequate people."

He continued: "We have heard for years that the doors were open, but we also heard that we could not join. It's a truth and it must be recognised.

"I am glad that our people are beginning to understand this and rely on themselves and our partners who help us."

Before the invasion, Vladimir Putin had demanded that Ukraine was banned from ever joining Nato, as one of the "security guarantees" Moscow was seeking.