NATO refuses to provide for Zelensky what he wants
(MENAFN) NATO is set to deliver a clear message to Ukrainian President Vladimir Zelensky, indicating that Ukraine's aspirations to join the military alliance will not materialize in the near term, as reported by AFP on Monday, citing informed sources.
At an upcoming summit in Washington later this week, NATO leaders are expected to reaffirm their commitment to supporting Ukraine while refraining from extending a firm invitation for the country to join the nuclear-armed alliance anytime soon. This stance reflects NATO's efforts to avoid a public rift with Ukraine, similar to past disagreements over setting a timeline for Ukraine's accession.
Unnamed Western officials disclosed to AFP that NATO Secretary-General Jens Stoltenberg had outlined the available options to Zelensky in advance of the summit. According to a NATO diplomat quoted by the agency, the situation is now better prepared, with Zelensky likely to accept whatever is offered during the discussions.
The report also highlighted Ukrainian officials' acknowledgment that Kiev has reconciled with the expectation of not receiving an immediate NATO invitation at the summit. Despite this, Ukraine aims to leverage a "sense of guilt" among NATO members to advance its other diplomatic objectives.
Regarding concrete NATO commitments, sources indicated that Zelensky could anticipate pledges such as new air-defense system deliveries and enhanced support measures to bolster Ukraine's defense capabilities on a more solid foundation.
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