NATO Chief declares Ukraine’s membership path 'irreversible'

NATO Secretary-General Mark Rutte made a surprise visit to Kyiv on Thursday, reinforcing the country’s aspirations to join the military alliance amid the ongoing Russian invasion. During his visit, Rutte asserted that Ukraine’s path to NATO membership is “irreversible” and cannot be swayed by external pressures, particularly from Moscow.

“Ukraine is closer to NATO than ever before,” Rutte stated during a joint press conference with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky. “And will continue on this path until you become a member of our Alliance. I very much look forward to that day.” He highlighted the $44.1 billion in military assistance pledged by NATO members within the next year as critical support for Ukraine’s defense efforts.

Rutte’s visit comes at a time of heightened tensions, with differing opinions among NATO’s 32 member states regarding Ukraine’s membership bid. However, he emphasized that Russia’s influence over this decision is null, stating, “If somebody might think otherwise, that Russia on this issue has no vote and no veto.”

Zelensky, addressing the urgent need for enhanced military support, urged NATO to consider joint interception of Russian missiles targeting Ukraine, drawing parallels to U.S. efforts to intercept Iranian missiles aimed at Israel. “Jointly intercepting Iranian missiles is no different from jointly intercepting Russian missiles,” he asserted, noting the connection between the Russian and Iranian regimes.

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While Rutte acknowledged Ukraine’s right to defend itself, he clarified that decisions regarding the use of long-range weapons against Russia rest with individual NATO member states. “The only country here that has crossed a red line is not Ukraine; it is Russia, by starting this war,” he declared. He reiterated that Ukraine’s self-defense rights extend beyond its borders, stating, “Targeting Russian fighter jets and missiles before they can be used against Ukraine’s civilian infrastructure can help save lives.”

Rutte’s visit highlighted NATO’s commitment to strengthening Ukraine’s defenses. He announced the establishment of a command structure aimed at coordinating security assistance and training for Ukraine, ensuring that the country receives the necessary support to counter Russian aggression.

As NATO allies prepare for a crucial meeting in Ramstein, Germany, on October 12 to discuss ongoing war support for Ukraine, the alliance’s backing continues to solidify, underscoring a united front against Russian expansionism. With the stakes higher than ever, NATO’s pledge of military aid and assurance of Ukraine’s membership aspirations signal a pivotal moment in the region’s geopolitical landscape.