Nato Members Pledge Support for Ukraine’s Path to Future Membership
At a recent summit in Washington DC, Nato members have pledged their unwavering support for Ukraine’s “irreversible path” to future membership in the military alliance. While a formal timeline for Ukraine to join Nato was not agreed upon, the 32 members of the alliance have committed to providing more aid and integration with Ukraine’s military.
The ongoing invasion of Ukraine by Russia was a top priority at the summit, with all members agreeing that Russia remains the most significant and direct threat to security. In response, Nato has announced €40bn in aid for Ukraine, including F-16 fighter jets and air defense support.
US Secretary of State Antony Blinken confirmed that US-built F-16 jets are in the process of being transferred to Ukraine from Denmark and the Netherlands, marking the first time Ukraine will receive these advanced aircraft. The jets are expected to be in use as early as this summer.
In addition to the aid commitments, Nato members have agreed to set up a new unit to coordinate military aid and training for the Ukrainian army, further deepening ties between the alliance and Ukraine. The joint statement from Nato members emphasized that these measures, along with Ukraine’s progress on democratic, economic, and security reforms, constitute a bridge to Ukraine’s eventual membership in Nato.
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky attended the summit and met with world leaders, including UK Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer. Both leaders reaffirmed their support for Ukraine’s war effort, with Sir Keir assuring Mr. Zelensky that there would be no change in support despite a new government in London.
While the summit did not provide a clear timeline for Ukraine’s full membership in Nato, the alliance remains committed to supporting Ukraine on its path to Euro-Atlantic integration. US President Joe Biden used the summit to call for more defense investment from Nato members to ensure the alliance can defend every inch of its territory.
Overall, the summit highlighted the strong support for Ukraine within Nato and the commitment to strengthening ties between the alliance and the embattled nation.
