Zelenskyy deems NATO’s refusal to set a membership timeline as “unprecedented and absurd.”

NATO Expresses Support for Ukraine’s Membership

In an exciting development, NATO members have issued a statement affirming their support for Ukraine’s membership in the alliance. The Vilnius Summit Communique, available in pdf format, declares that “Ukraine’s future is in NATO.”

The highly anticipated summit, taking place in Vilnius from July 11-12, brings together leaders from all 31 NATO member countries to address critical global security challenges, including the ongoing war in Ukraine.

Commitment to Reform and Progress

The alliance reaffirmed its commitment, initially made at the 2008 Bucharest Summit, and acknowledged the significant progress Ukraine has made on its reform path.

Notably, NATO has replaced the requirement for Ukraine to implement a “Membership Action Plan” with an “Annual National Program” that will regularly review the country’s progress.

Assistance and Conditions

NATO has pledged to support Ukraine in implementing further democratic and security reforms necessary for its eventual membership. However, the member nations emphasized that the invitation to join the alliance will only be extended when agreed upon by all allies and when the necessary conditions are met.

Disappointment and Criticism

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky expressed his disappointment with the decision, stating that it would be absurd if Ukraine was not given a timetable for joining NATO at this year’s meeting in Vilnius. He took to Twitter to voice his concerns and emphasized that Ukraine deserves respect.

President Joe Biden’s Perspective

Before attending the summit, President Joe Biden shared his views on the matter, stating that the war with Russia must come to an end before NATO can admit Ukraine. He highlighted the lack of unanimity within NATO regarding Ukraine’s immediate membership during an interview released on Sunday.