VILNIUS (Reuters) – U.S. President Joe Biden expressed his anticipation for the day when the war-torn country of Ukraine can join NATO, in an effort to alleviate the impact of recent remarks suggesting that now is not the appropriate time for Ukrainian membership in the military alliance.
During a bilateral meeting on the sidelines of a NATO summit in Vilnius, Lithuania’s capital, Biden conveyed his admiration for Zelenskiy’s resilience and determination, emphasizing that their efforts had become an inspiration worldwide.
In acknowledgment of the Ukrainian leader’s frustrations regarding the promptness of assistance, Biden assured Zelenskiy that the United States is committed to providing the necessary support. Speaking in the presence of reporters, Biden affirmed, “I promise you the United States is doing everything we can to get you what you need.”
Furthermore, Biden shared his eagerness for the day when Ukraine officially joins NATO, stating, “I look forward to the day when we’re having the meeting celebrating your official, official membership in NATO.”
On the same note, U.S. national security adviser Jake Sullivan revealed that Biden intended to offer Zelenskiy long-range missiles during their meeting.
In a prior CNN interview before departing for the NATO trip, Biden expressed his belief that it is not the right time for Ukraine to join the NATO alliance, as it would result in a direct conflict with Russia. However, when questioned by a reporter during the summit about the time frame following the war, Biden humorously responded, “an hour and 20 minutes.”
During the NATO summit, the G7 nations, comprised of the world’s most industrialized countries, pledged their military and financial support to Ukraine. Additionally, they pledged intelligence sharing and vowed to take immediate action if Russia were to attack Ukraine again.
Zelenskiy, who previously stated that it would be “absurd” if Ukraine was not offered NATO membership, expressed his gratitude to Biden for the billions of dollars in aid that his country had received. He emphasized that this financial support is invested in more than just the fight against Russia, stating, “You have to know that you spend this money for our lives.”
(Reporting by Steve Holland and Doina Chiacu; Writing by Heather Timmons; Editing by Howard Goller)
Credit: The Star : News Feed
