Recent statements from U.S. and NATO representatives make it clear that the alliance is not rushing to invite Ukraine to join, which directly affects the prospects for implementing President Volodymyr Zelensky’s “victory plan.” This plan specifically includes Ukraine’s swift accession to NATO as a key element of strengthening regional security and countering Russian aggression.
U.S. Ambassador to NATO Julianne Smith made it clear during a press briefing that Ukraine would not receive an invitation to join the alliance in the near term. “We are not at a stage where the alliance is discussing an invitation in the short term. However, we will continue our discussions with our Ukrainian friends about how they can continue moving closer to the alliance,” she said, according to “RBC-Ukraine.”
This stance raises questions about how committed the West is to supporting Ukraine’s ambitions, not only to end the war but to secure long-term safety through NATO membership. Zelensky’s “victory plan” places NATO membership as its first priority.
Is There NATO Support?
NATO Secretary-General Mark Rutte expressed caution regarding full support for the Ukrainian plan. He noted that the alliance cannot currently commit to supporting all its points. “We have taken note of this plan, and we will discuss its individual aspects. However, there are many issues where we need to deepen our understanding. A closed-door dialogue will take place, and I cannot currently say that we fully support all of its points,” Rutte emphasized.
At the same time, Rutte reassured that Ukraine would definitely join NATO “when the time is right.” This aligns with statements made during the alliance’s summit, where it was highlighted that Ukraine is on an “irreversible path” to membership.
Reaction to Delays
For Ukraine, which is currently fighting for its independence and territorial integrity, fast NATO membership is seen as a necessary step to guarantee security and deter further Russian aggression. Any delay in extending this invitation could be interpreted as the West’s caution, unwilling to escalate tensions with Moscow. At the same time, this cautious approach may concern Ukrainian society, which is awaiting more decisive actions and support from Western allies.
Ukraine finds itself in a situation where every move from the international community and their stance on the war with Russia is crucial for the conflict’s future direction. The lack of a clear and swift decision on NATO membership could contribute to prolonging the war, which some analysts suggest is precisely what Moscow hopes for.
Amid this uncertainty within NATO, Ukraine continues to seek strong support from its Western partners, aiming to convince them of the need for bold actions. However, the absence of a definitive signal from the alliance might impact Kyiv’s strategic plans in the near future.
For more detailed information on prospects for ending the war and the role of the international community, we recommend reading the interview with the Head of the Presidential Office, Yermak, where he discusses his stance on future peace summits: The Next Peace Summit on Ukraine Should Help End the War – Yermak in a Bloomberg Interview.