In an effort to show its unwavering support for Ukraine, the 31-member NATO alliance gathered in the Lithuanian capital Vilnius on July 11-12. The alliance released a statement outlining their stance on Ukraine’s future pathway to NATO membership.
The statement emphasized the commitment to supporting Ukraine’s right to self-defense, as enshrined in Article 51 of the UN Charter. The alliance expressed solidarity with Ukraine in its defense of its nation, land, and shared values.
NATO reaffirmed its dedication to providing political and practical support to Ukraine in its fight to defend its independence, sovereignty, and territorial integrity within its internationally recognized borders. The alliance also welcomed the efforts of all allies and partners engaged in supporting Ukraine.
The statement made it clear that Ukraine has the right to choose its own security arrangements, with NATO being seen as its future. NATO affirmed its earlier commitment, made at the 2008 Summit in Bucharest, that Ukraine will become a member of NATO. The alliance acknowledged that Ukraine’s path to full Euro-Atlantic integration has progressed beyond the need for the Membership Action Plan.
NATO highlighted Ukraine’s increasing interoperability and political integration with the alliance, as well as its substantial progress on its reform path. Allies will continue to support and review Ukraine’s progress on interoperability, as well as democratic and security sector reforms. NATO Foreign Ministers will regularly assess progress through the adapted Annual National Programme.
NATO emphasized its support for Ukraine in making necessary reforms for future membership. The alliance stated that it will extend an invitation to Ukraine to join when conditions are met and agreed upon by all allies.
The security of Ukraine is of paramount importance to NATO. To further facilitate Ukraine’s integration with NATO, the alliance has agreed upon a substantial package of expanded political and practical support. This includes the establishment of the NATO-Ukraine Council, a joint body where allies and Ukraine sit as equal members to advance political dialogue, engagement, cooperation, and Ukraine’s aspirations for NATO membership.
The NATO-Ukraine Council will serve as a platform for joint consultations, decision-making, and crisis consultations between NATO and Ukraine.
Furthermore, NATO reiterated its commitment to providing non-lethal assistance to Ukraine through the Comprehensive Assistance Package (CAP). Over 500 million euros have been committed by allies and partners since the Madrid Summit. The alliance has agreed to develop the CAP into a multi-year program to support Ukraine’s deterrence and defense in the short, medium, and long term. The assistance provided will help rebuild Ukraine’s security and defense sector and transition the country towards full interoperability with NATO. Allies will continue to fund the CAP in a sustained and predictable manner. Partner contributions are highly welcomed and encouraged.
Reporting by Sabine Siebold and John Irish
Credit: The Star : News Feed
