📷 Image Credits: The Times of India
The recent NATO summit in Washington saw all 32 NATO nations declaring Ukraine to be on an ‘irreversible path’ to NATO membership. The leaders of the alliance released a summit declaration asserting Ukraine’s increasing interoperability and political integration with NATO. The declaration highlighted the progress Ukraine has made since the Vilnius Summit, emphasizing the country’s necessary democratic, economic, and security reforms. As Ukraine continues on this path, NATO reaffirms its support for Ukraine’s integration, including eventual membership in the alliance. While the declaration did not provide a specific timeline for Ukraine’s membership, it reiterated NATO’s commitment to extending an invitation once all criteria are met. This stance aligns with last year’s affirmation by Secretary of State Antony Blinken, noting Ukraine’s advancements but also the need for further reforms. President Joe Biden emphasized Ukraine’s significance at the summit, underscoring the importance of collective support against Russian aggression. He announced a donation of air defense equipment from the U.S. and several partners to bolster Ukraine’s defense capabilities. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy also engaged in discussions with key U.S. leaders to secure additional resources for his country’s defense efforts. The summit highlighted the ongoing commitment of NATO to Ukraine’s security and the shared resolve to confront external threats to stability in the region. The alliance remains dedicated to assisting Ukraine in its defense against Russian aggression and is poised to welcome Ukraine as a member once all conditions are satisfied.
