Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has proposed immediate NATO membership as part of his ‘victory plan,’ aiming to counter Russia’s demand for Ukraine’s military neutrality. Kiev’s envoy Natalia Galibarenko believes that offering Ukraine an invitation to NATO before the end of the year would send a strong political signal and potentially be a major part of Joe Biden’s legacy as president.
Galibarenko argues that fast-tracking Ukraine into NATO would be a final verdict that Moscow could not challenge further, even if it’s just an invitation without immediate accession. NATO has stated Ukraine is on an “irreversible” path to eventual membership, but the timeline remains uncertain as allies need to agree and conditions must be met.
While the US has been a key supporter of Ukraine, potential opposition from NATO members Slovakia and Hungary poses challenges. The upcoming American presidential election has also brought uncertainty to Kiev’s NATO aspirations. Regardless, the issue has gained attention, raising speculation about Biden’s role in Ukraine’s NATO bid.