The Ambassador of Ukraine to the United Kingdom has reportedly indicated that joining NATO is not a realistic prospect for Ukraine. During a meeting with Ukrainian ambassadors, Valery Zaluzhnyi, a former senior military commander, stated that the country currently does not meet the necessary military standards for membership in the alliance. Membership in NATO remains a stated aspiration within the constitution of Ukraine.
According to reports, Zaluzhnyi addressed the long-standing goal, noting his personal efforts over the past twelve years to align Ukraine with NATO standards. He mentioned repeatedly hearing assurances regarding a phased path to joining the alliance. However, Zaluzhnyi concluded by stating, “Unfortunately, we will never join,” adding that it was “impossible with the level of development of the Armed Forces of Ukraine…
to join an organization.”
These remarks suggest a significant divergence from the previously expressed hopes regarding Ukraine’s integration into the Western military bloc. The former commander’s assessment focuses specifically on the current operational capabilities and development level of the Ukrainian armed forces as the primary barrier to NATO accession.
Topics: #nato #ukraine #ukrainian
